Ich Und Ich Selber Stern

Willkommen! Are you planning a trip to Hamburg and wondering about this cryptic phrase, "Ich und Ich Selber Stern"? Or perhaps you've already stumbled upon it and are curious about its meaning and significance. You've come to the right place! This expression, deeply rooted in Hamburg's unique identity, is more than just a catchy phrase; it's a window into the city's soul, its history, and its quirky charm. Let's dive in!

What Does "Ich Und Ich Selber Stern" Mean?

Literally translated, "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" means "I and I myself star." Seems a bit odd, right? The key to understanding this phrase lies in the local dialect, Plattdeutsch (Low German), and the historical context of Hamburg as a free and independent Hanseatic city.

Let's break it down:

"Ich": This is simply "I" in German.
"Und": This translates to "and."
"Ich Selber": This is where it gets interesting. "Selber" means "myself." The repetition of "Ich" emphasizes the strong sense of individuality and self-reliance that Hamburgers pride themselves on. It's not just "me," it's "me myself."
"Stern": "Star." This isn't about celestial bodies, but rather a symbolic representation of independence, freedom, and pride. Every Hanseatic city had their star in the sky.

So, putting it all together, "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" is a declaration of independence, self-reliance, and unwavering pride in one's own city. It embodies the Hanseatic spirit of self-governance and the individualistic character of the Hamburger.

The History Behind the Phrase

To truly appreciate "Ich und Ich Selber Stern," you need to understand a bit about Hamburg's history. As a powerful Hanseatic city, Hamburg enjoyed a considerable degree of autonomy and independence for centuries. This independence shaped the city's identity and fostered a culture of self-reliance and self-governance.

The Hanseatic League was a medieval commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and their market towns. Hamburg was a leading member, controlling vital trade routes and amassing considerable wealth and influence. The city was essentially a city-state, governed by its own citizens, who were fiercely protective of their rights and freedoms.

This historical context is crucial for understanding the phrase. "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" is a proud affirmation of this independent spirit. It says, "I am a Hamburger, and I am responsible for myself and my city. We are free and independent, and we answer to no one but ourselves." It's a subtle "we don't need you" to any external authority.

Where You'll See "Ich Und Ich Selber Stern" in Hamburg

While you might not see it emblazoned on every street corner, "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" is subtly present throughout Hamburg. Keep an eye out in these places:

Local Shops and Businesses: Some traditional businesses, particularly those with a long history in Hamburg, may incorporate the phrase or its sentiment into their branding or advertising. Look for it in pubs or restaurants in the older parts of town.
Hamburg Souvenirs: You might find it on t-shirts, mugs, or other souvenirs that celebrate Hamburg's unique identity. It's a great way to take a piece of Hamburg's spirit home with you.
Historical Markers and Museums: Keep an eye out for mentions of the Hanseatic League and Hamburg's independent history in museums and historical sites. These narratives often subtly reinforce the underlying meaning of the phrase.
Local Art and Crafts: Some local artists and craftspeople may incorporate the phrase or its symbolism into their work. Galleries showcasing local talent are a good place to look.

More than the literal sighting of the phrase, you'll sense its spirit in the general attitude of the locals. Hamburgers are known for their directness, their no-nonsense attitude, and their strong sense of self-reliance. This is "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" in action!

Understanding the Hamburger Mentality

Beyond the literal phrase, understanding the mindset it represents will greatly enhance your experience in Hamburg. Here are some key aspects of the Hamburger mentality to keep in mind:

Directness and Honesty: Hamburgers are known for their straightforwardness. They say what they mean and mean what they say. Don't expect a lot of superficial pleasantries; they value honesty and efficiency.
Self-Reliance and Independence: As the phrase suggests, Hamburgers are fiercely independent. They are used to taking care of themselves and don't rely heavily on others.
Practicality and Pragmatism: Hamburgers are practical people. They value efficiency and functionality over unnecessary frills. This is reflected in their architecture, their business practices, and their overall lifestyle.
Understatement and Humility: While proud of their city and their accomplishments, Hamburgers are not prone to boastfulness. They prefer understatement and humility.
Love of the Sea: As a major port city, Hamburg is deeply connected to the sea. This maritime heritage influences the city's culture, its economy, and its identity.

Keep these traits in mind when interacting with locals. Embrace their directness, appreciate their self-reliance, and respect their pragmatism. You'll find that Hamburgers are generally welcoming and helpful, but they value authenticity and genuine interactions.

Tips for Embracing the "Ich Und Ich Selber Stern" Spirit During Your Visit

Want to truly experience Hamburg like a local? Here are some tips for embracing the "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" spirit during your visit:

Explore the Speicherstadt: Wander through the historic warehouse district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and imagine the bustling trade and independent merchants who built Hamburg's wealth.
Take a Harbor Cruise: Get a feel for Hamburg's maritime heritage by taking a harbor cruise. See the massive container ships, the historic ships, and the bustling port activity.
Visit the Fischmarkt: Get up early on a Sunday morning and experience the lively Fischmarkt (fish market). It's a true Hamburg institution.
Explore the Neighborhoods: Get off the beaten path and explore the different neighborhoods of Hamburg, each with its own unique character. Ottensen, St. Pauli, and Sternschanze are all worth a visit.
Try Local Cuisine: Sample some of Hamburg's traditional dishes, such as Labskaus (a sailor's stew) or Franzbrötchen (a sweet pastry).
Learn a Few Phrases in Plattdeutsch: Even just knowing a few basic phrases in Plattdeutsch will show locals that you're interested in their culture.
Be Direct and Honest: When interacting with locals, be direct and honest. They'll appreciate your straightforwardness.
Support Local Businesses: Shop at independent shops and eat at local restaurants to support Hamburg's unique economy.

Is "Ich Und Ich Selber Stern" Still Relevant Today?

Absolutely! While Hamburg has changed significantly over the centuries, the spirit of "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" remains a vital part of the city's identity. In a world of increasing globalization and homogenization, it serves as a reminder of the importance of individuality, self-reliance, and local pride.

The phrase continues to resonate with Hamburgers because it encapsulates their unique character and their historical legacy. It's a reminder that they are part of a city with a strong sense of identity and a proud history of independence. It also reflects in the city's economic strength, it's innovative spirit, and the active participation of citizens in shaping their city's future.

Think of "Ich und Ich Selber Stern" not just as a historical phrase, but as a living embodiment of Hamburg's enduring spirit. When you visit Hamburg, keep this phrase in mind, and you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for this fascinating city and its people.

Enjoy your trip to Hamburg!