Godot is whatever it is in life that you are waiting for: 'I'm waiting to win the lottery. I'm waiting to fall in love'. For me, as a child, it was Christmas. At least that eventually came.

The quote "Godot is whatever it is in life that you are waiting for: 'I'm waiting to win the lottery. I'm waiting to fall in love'. For me, as a child, it was Christmas. At least that eventually came." by Ian McKellen reflects the idea of waiting for something significant in life, similar to the theme of "waiting" in Samuel Beckett's play Waiting for Godot. McKellen compares the abstract concept of Godot—a person, opportunity, or event that people feel will bring them fulfillment or meaning—to everyday expectations, such as waiting to win the lottery or fall in love. In his case, as a child, it was Christmas that embodied his anticipation, something he eagerly awaited each year with excitement and hope.

McKellen's mention of waiting for Christmas highlights how, as a child, Christmas represented the promise of joy, presents, and family moments. Unlike more abstract or uncertain hopes like winning the lottery or finding love, Christmas was something tangible and guaranteed, making it a special and eagerly awaited occasion. The fact that Christmas eventually came reflects the satisfaction of seeing something longed for finally arrive, making it a comforting and fulfilling experience in contrast to more abstract desires that may never materialize.

The quote also explores the human tendency to wait for significant events or moments in life that we believe will bring happiness or change. Whether it's a specific occasion like Christmas or more elusive dreams like love or wealth, people often place their hopes in the future. McKellen’s reference to Godot draws attention to how the act of waiting can become a defining part of life, filled with both expectation and frustration when the awaited thing doesn’t arrive.

Ultimately, McKellen’s reflection on Godot and the waiting for Christmas touches on the broader theme of anticipation and the inherent hope we attach to future events. His personal connection to Christmas as a child shows how certain moments in life, like the arrival of Christmas, can be a source of joy and fulfillment, offering a sense of certainty amidst the uncertainty of other desires we wait for.