Liedtext Schön Ist Es Auf Der Welt Zu Sein
Herzlich willkommen! Planning a trip to Germany, Austria, or Switzerland? Perhaps you’ve already arrived and are soaking up the local culture? Then chances are you'll hear a song that seems to resonate everywhere, especially with children: “Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein” (It’s Beautiful to Be in the World). This isn't just a catchy tune; it's a cultural touchstone, a song that embodies a certain *optimism and childlike wonder* that's deeply ingrained in the German-speaking world.
What is "Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein"?
"Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein" is a popular German children's song. While it might seem simple on the surface, its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its message. It's a celebration of life, friendship, and the beauty that can be found in the everyday. It's the kind of song that gets stuck in your head – in the best possible way – and leaves you feeling a little bit brighter.
The song often serves as a *unifying anthem*, sung at school events, family gatherings, and even public celebrations. Its widespread use makes it an excellent introduction to the German language and culture. Learning the lyrics and understanding the meaning behind them can provide valuable insights into the values and perspectives cherished in these countries.
The Lyrics and Their Meaning
The lyrics are relatively simple, which is part of the song's charm. Here's a breakdown of a common version, along with explanations:
Strophe 1: Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt die Biene zu dem Stachelschwein.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt der Igel zu dem kleinen Stein.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt die Schnecke zu dem bunten Reim.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt das kleine Mädchen zu dem großen Schein.
Translation:
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the bee to the porcupine.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the hedgehog to the little stone.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the snail to the colourful rhyme.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the little girl to the big shine.
Explanation:
The first verse establishes the core message. Each line pairs an animal or object with a seemingly unrelated one, emphasizing that beauty and joy can be found in all corners of the world, regardless of size or importance. The final line, featuring a little girl and "the big shine," could be interpreted as a child finding beauty in something grand, like the sun or a bright light, symbolizing hope and optimism.
Strophe 2: Schön ist es, Freunde zu haben, ja das ist wunderbar.
Schön ist es, Lieder zu singen, ja das ist doch klar.
Schön ist es, einfach zu leben, ja das ist prima.
Schön ist es, Liebe zu geben, ja das ist Klima.
Translation:
It's beautiful to have friends, yes, that's wonderful.
It’s beautiful to sing songs, yes, that’s clear.
It's beautiful to live simply, yes, that’s great.
It's beautiful to give love, yes, that's (the) climate.
Explanation:
This verse focuses on the joys of human connection and simple pleasures. Having friends, singing songs, living simply, and giving love are all presented as sources of beauty and happiness. The last line, "ja das ist Klima," is a playful wordplay. "Klima" translates to "climate," but here it suggests that giving love creates a positive atmosphere or environment. The rhyme is more important than a strictly literal translation.
Strophe 3: Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt der Affe zu dem Krokodil.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt der Pinguin zum Automobil.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt der Dackel zu dem Petersil.
Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein, sagt das kleine Mädchen zu dem großen Stil.
Translation:
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the monkey to the crocodile.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the penguin to the automobile.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the dachshund to the parsley.
It’s beautiful to be in the world, says the little girl to the big style.
Explanation:
This verse mirrors the first, with new pairings of animals and objects. Again, the emphasis is on finding beauty and joy in unexpected places. The line "das kleine Mädchen zu dem großen Stil" (the little girl to the big style) is less literal than the others and could be interpreted as a child appreciating grandeur or elegance.
There can be more strophes, each generally following the patterns above, with different animal/object combinations or variations on themes of friendship and simple joys.
Why is it so Popular?
Several factors contribute to the enduring appeal of "Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein":
* Simplicity: The straightforward lyrics and catchy melody make it easy for children to learn and sing. * Positivity: The song's message of optimism and appreciation for life is universally appealing. * Cultural Significance: Its widespread use in schools and public events has solidified its place in German-speaking culture. * Nostalgia: For many adults, the song evokes fond memories of childhood. * Easy to Adapt: Because of the simple structure, it's easy to add new strophes to tailor the song for a specific event or occasion.Where You Might Hear It
As a visitor, you're most likely to encounter "Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein" in the following situations:
* Schools and Kindergartens: It's a staple in early childhood education. * Children's Festivals and Events: It's often performed at public celebrations geared towards families. * Family Gatherings: It's a popular choice for sing-alongs during holidays or birthdays. * Church Services: Sometimes adapted for religious contexts, focusing on the beauty of creation. * Public Performances: Street musicians or choirs might include it in their repertoire.How to Incorporate it into Your Trip
Beyond simply hearing the song, you can actively engage with it during your trip:
* Learn the Lyrics: Knowing the words will enhance your appreciation and allow you to sing along. Many online resources provide lyrics and translations. * Find a Performance: Check local event listings for children's concerts or festivals where the song might be performed. * Sing it with Children: If you're traveling with kids, learn the song together before your trip. It will be a fun way to connect with local children. * Look for Variations: Be aware that different regions and communities may have their own versions or additional verses. * Use it as a Conversation Starter: Mentioning the song to locals can be a great way to spark conversations about culture and childhood memories.Beyond the Song: Exploring German Values
"Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein" offers a glimpse into the values that are often emphasized in German-speaking cultures. These include:
* The Importance of Community: The emphasis on friendship and togetherness reflects the value placed on social connections. * Appreciation for Nature: The repeated references to animals and natural elements suggest a connection to the environment. * Simplicity and Contentment: The line "Schön ist es, einfach zu leben" (It’s beautiful to live simply) highlights the importance of finding joy in everyday things. * Childhood Innocence: The song's perspective is decidedly childlike, celebrating wonder and optimism. * Harmony and Order: While not explicitly stated, the song's structure and repetition contribute to a sense of harmony and balance.Practical Tips for Visitors
* Download a Translation App: Having a translation app on your phone will be invaluable for understanding the lyrics and cultural nuances. * Learn Basic German Phrases: Even knowing a few basic phrases like "Hallo" (Hello), "Danke" (Thank you), and "Bitte" (You're welcome) will enhance your interactions with locals. * Be Respectful of Local Customs: Observe how people behave in public spaces and try to adapt your own behavior accordingly. * Engage with the Culture: Attend local events, visit museums, and try traditional foods to immerse yourself in the German-speaking world.In conclusion, "Schön ist es auf der Welt zu sein" is more than just a children's song; it's a cultural artifact that offers insights into the values and perspectives of the German-speaking world. By learning the lyrics, understanding the meaning, and actively engaging with the song during your trip, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and richness of this region. So, next time you hear this cheerful melody, sing along and remember: it’s beautiful to be in the world!
