☝️ Key Points
- The song is an encouragement to not be defeated by the difficulties of life and to always maintain hope and resilience.
- It warns against becoming too hard, bitter, or fearful, as that is exactly what the powerful want.
- The listener is encouraged to use their time meaningfully and not waste it.
- The last part of the song speaks about the necessity of speaking the truth, even in times of silence.
- The lyrics are written in a metaphorical language and address different aspects of life.
Interpretation
The lyrics of the song 'Ermutigung' by
Wolf Biermann is a call to not let oneself be defeated by the difficulties and challenges of life. The text is written in a metaphorical language and addresses different aspects of life.
'You, don't let yourself harden / In these hard times.' - These lines encourage the listener to not become hardened despite the tough times, as those who are too rigid can break.
'You, don't let yourself become bitter / In these bitter times.' - Biermann warns against bitterness and explains that even if you are imprisoned, the powerful ones will not tremble before your suffering.
'You, don't let yourself be frightened / In these terrifying times.' - These lines encourage the listener to not be overwhelmed by fear, as that is precisely what the powerful ones want.
'You, don't let yourself be consumed / Use your time.' - Here, the listener is encouraged to use their time meaningfully and not waste it.
'We don't want to keep it silent / In these times of silence.' - The last part of the song speaks of hope and the necessity to speak the truth, even in times of silence.
Overall, the song is an encouragement to not let oneself be defeated by the harshness of life and to always maintain hope and resilience.