☝️ Key Points
- The song presents a humorous and profound critique of the working world
- The song expresses the desire to lead a simpler, carefree life, symbolized by the life of a chicken
- The song shows the contrast between the reality of human life and the desire for an carefree life as an animal
- The lyrics of the song express a longing for carefreeness and freedom
- Despite its humorous tone, the song addresses serious topics such as work, expectations, and worries
Interpretation
The lyrics of 'Ich wollt ich wär ein Huhn' by the
Comedian Harmonists are a humorous yet profound critique of the human work world and the associated stress and expectations. It expresses the desire to lead a simpler, carefree life, symbolized by the life of a chicken or a rooster. 'I wouldn't have much to do, I would lay an egg in the morning and be free in the evening.' This desire contrasts with the human reality, where it often revolves around fame, money, and hard work, as in the lines 'Fame and money no longer attract me in the world' and 'The man doesn't have an easy life on earth, fighting is his purpose. And when he finally achieves something, a woman takes it away from him.' The song plays with the idea that life as an animal could be easier and more carefree, without the worries and responsibilities that human existence often brings. It is a longing for lightheartedness and freedom that is expressed in this song.