What Are the L Shaped Gifts in Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you may recall a scene where Clark Griswold’s boss hands out “L shaped” gifts to employees. But what exactly are these gifts and why are they called “L shaped”? Let’s dive in and find out.

The Scene

In the scene, Clark Griswold and his co-workers eagerly wait to receive their Christmas bonuses from their boss, Frank Shirley. However, instead of receiving cash or traditional gifts, each employee is given a large gift-wrapped box that is shaped like the letter “L”. As they open their gifts, they discover that they are all the same item – a subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club.

The Meaning

So why are these gifts called “L shaped”? The term likely refers to the shape of the box itself.

Since it is long on one side and short on the other, it resembles the letter “L”. However, it’s also possible that the term is used because these gifts may be seen as an “L” or loss for employees who were expecting monetary bonuses.

The Significance

The Jelly of the Month Club gift may seem like an underwhelming present compared to cash bonuses or extravagant gifts like Clark’s swimming pool. However, it actually holds significant meaning in regards to the theme of family and appreciation in Christmas Vacation.

Through this seemingly disappointing gift, Frank Shirley is attempting to show his employees that he values them beyond just what they can do for him financially. He wants them to enjoy something together as a family and create memories outside of work. This message is reiterated throughout the movie as Clark learns to appreciate his own family despite their quirks and imperfections.

The Takeaway

So while receiving a subscription to a jelly club may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the “L shaped” gifts in Christmas Vacation hold a deeper meaning. They serve as a reminder to appreciate the people in our lives and the memories we create with them, especially during the holiday season.

In conclusion, the “L shaped” gifts in Christmas Vacation may have seemed like a disappointment to Clark Griswold and his co-workers, but they hold significant meaning in regards to family and appreciation. So this holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the people in your life and make some lasting memories together.