The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a cherished Christmas tradition, a tale of an underdog who finds his purpose and saves Christmas. But the poem’s origins are surprisingly humble, starting as a marketing ploy for a department store. This article explores the fascinating journey of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” from its creation by Robert L. May to its iconic status in popular culture.
Contents
Robert May's original Rudolph manuscript, showing an early sketch of Rudolph
The Birth of an Icon
In 1939, during the waning years of the Great Depression, Montgomery Ward, a department store in Chicago, sought a unique Christmas promotion. They commissioned Robert L. May, a copywriter, to create a children’s book to give away to customers. May, a skilled wordsmith known for his limericks and parodies, but also a man burdened by personal struggles and self-doubt, poured his own feelings of being an outcast into the story of a misfit reindeer.
Rudolph’s Unlikely Journey
May’s creation, Rudolph, was a reindeer with a shiny red nose, mocked and excluded by his peers. Initially, May’s boss was unimpressed with the story. However, May, with the help of a colleague in the art department, persevered, believing in Rudolph’s potential.
A page from Robert May's notes, showing alternative names considered for Rudolph
Tragedy struck during the project; May’s wife passed away, leaving him a widower and single father. While his boss offered to relieve him of the assignment, May refused, finding solace and purpose in Rudolph’s story. He later wrote, “I needed Rudolph now more than ever.”
From Giveaway to Millions of Copies
Montgomery Ward printed and distributed over two million copies of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” that Christmas. The book was a resounding success, delighting children across the country.
A map showing the distribution of Rudolph books to Montgomery Ward stores nationwide
Despite the book’s popularity, May remained burdened by debt from his wife’s medical bills. Years later, in a twist of fate, Montgomery Ward’s CEO, Sewell Avery, granted May the full rights to Rudolph. This act of generosity proved to be life-changing.
The Song and the Legacy
May’s brother-in-law, songwriter Johnny Marks, adapted the story into a song. The now-classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” was recorded by Gene Autry, becoming a phenomenal hit, selling over 25 million copies. The song further cemented Rudolph’s place in Christmas lore and paved the way for the beloved Rankin/Bass stop-motion animated film.
Rudolph’s Enduring Appeal
The “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” poem transcends its simple origins. It resonates with readers and listeners of all ages because it speaks to universal themes of acceptance, finding your purpose, and overcoming adversity. Rudolph’s glowing red nose, once a source of shame and ridicule, becomes his greatest strength, allowing him to guide Santa’s sleigh and save Christmas.
A page from the original Rudolph book, showing Rudolph leading Santa's sleigh
The story’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of simple storytelling and the enduring appeal of a heartwarming Christmas message. Robert L. May’s creation, born from personal hardship and initially met with skepticism, has become a timeless Christmas classic, bringing joy to generations.