My mother-in-law has come round to our house at Christmas seven years running. This year we're having a change. We're going to let her in.

In this quote, Les Dawson humorously reflects on the often complicated dynamics of family life, particularly during the Christmas season. The phrase "my mother-in-law has come round to our house at Christmas seven years running" suggests that there has been some form of distance or exclusion, hinting at playful tension between the family members. However, Dawson’s twist, "This year we’re having a change. We’re going to let her in," indicates that the family is choosing to embrace the situation and welcome the mother-in-law into their celebrations, flipping the previous exclusion into a moment of acceptance and humor.

The quote reflects Dawson's signature wit and comedic style, using a familiar family scenario—often a source of humor in many cultures, especially regarding relationships with in-laws—to highlight the playful dynamics that exist within family gatherings. His comment is a tongue-in-cheek way of showing that while family can sometimes be difficult, it is also a time to embrace change, forgiveness, and inclusion.

Dawson’s words also point to the unpredictability of family life, where traditions, even those that might seem awkward or strained, can be altered in light of new circumstances or the simple desire for something different. The humor in the quote comes from the surprise of the change, showing that even long-standing patterns can be broken with a little humor and a fresh perspective.

The origin of this quote reflects Les Dawson’s well-known comedic approach to family life and relationships. As a celebrated British comedian, Dawson often used his stand-up routines and television appearances to explore the funny, sometimes absurd realities of everyday life, especially the often awkward interactions within families. His ability to make light of these situations while still conveying underlying truths about family dynamics has made him a beloved figure in British comedy.