Song meaning of Alles für die Kinder by Till Lindemann

"Alles für die Kinder" by Till Lindemann is a thought-provoking song that delves into the dark and twisted nature of childhood innocence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of children engaging in violent and cruel behavior towards one another. The opening lines, "Kinder, alle Kinder, werfen große Steine, auf die andern Kinder, die da kommen kleiner" (Children, all children, throw big stones at the other children who are smaller), immediately sets the tone for the song's exploration of the destructive tendencies that can exist within children.

The chorus, "Hab keine Angst, hab doch keine Angst vor mir, ein Kind ist doch auch nur ein Tier" (Don't be afraid, don't be afraid of me, a child is just an animal too), suggests that the narrator is urging others not to fear the darkness that resides within children. The use of the phrase "ein Kind ist doch auch nur ein Tier" (a child is just an animal too) implies that children, like animals, are driven by instinct and can exhibit savage behavior.

In the second verse, the lyrics continue to depict the disturbing actions of children, such as tormenting smaller creatures. "Kinder, alle Kinder, quälen alles minder, kommen, ach, auf den Geschmack, stecken Kätzchen in den Sack" (Children, all children, torment everything that is weaker, they come to enjoy it, they put kittens in a bag). This imagery highlights the cruelty and lack of empathy that can sometimes be present in children.

The repetition of the line "Schere schlägt Papier, Papier schlägt Stein" (Scissors beat paper, paper beats stone) throughout the song serves as a metaphor for the cycle of violence and dominance that children engage in. It suggests that these destructive behaviors are perpetuated and passed down from one generation to another.

The bridge and final repetition of the chorus emphasize the importance of protecting and nurturing children. "Alles für die Kinder, alles für die Kleinen, alles für die Kinder, sollten niemals weinen" (Everything for the children, everything for the little ones, everything for the children, they should never cry). These lines convey a plea to safeguard the innocence and emotional well-being of children, suggesting that they should be shielded from the harsh realities of the world.

In summary, "Alles für die Kinder" by Till Lindemann explores the dark side of childhood innocence, shedding light on the potential for violence and cruelty that can exist within children. The lyrics serve as a reminder to protect and nurture children, ensuring that they are not subjected to unnecessary pain and suffering.