Text Komm Lieber Mai Und Mache

"Komm, lieber Mai, und mache": A Guide to Understanding and Celebrating this German Spring Tradition

For many, the arrival of spring in Germany is heralded not only by blossoming trees and warmer weather, but also by the sounds of children singing a simple, yet deeply ingrained song: "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache." This translates to "Come, dear May, and make." But what exactly is it that May is being asked to make? And what is the significance of this song and the traditions surrounding it?

The Song: Text and Meaning

The full song lyrics are as follows:

Komm, lieber Mai, und mache
Die Bäume wieder grün,
Und lass uns an dem Bache
Die kleinen Blümlein blüh'n.

Wie möchtest du doch sein,
So herrlich anzusehen?
Ach, lieber Mai, mach's eilig,
Bis wir zum Tanze gehen!

The song's meaning is straightforward: it's a plea to the month of May to hurry up and bring about the full bloom of spring. It requests that May "make" the trees green again and allow the little flowers to bloom by the brook. The second verse expresses a desire to be able to enjoy the beauty of spring and asks May to hurry so that everyone can go dancing – a reference to traditional May celebrations.

While seemingly simple, the song encapsulates the anticipation and joy that spring brings after a long, often harsh, German winter. It's a collective expression of the desire for warmth, color, and renewal.

Origins and History

The precise origins of "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache" are difficult to pinpoint, as it's a folk song that has been passed down through generations. However, its roots are deeply intertwined with pagan spring celebrations that predate Christianity. These celebrations honored the fertility of the land and the return of life after winter's dormancy.

Over time, these pagan traditions were often incorporated into Christian celebrations, such as the celebration of May Day (Maifeiertag) on May 1st. While the song itself doesn't explicitly reference Christianity, the underlying themes of hope, renewal, and celebration align with the spirit of Easter and the burgeoning spring season.

The widespread popularity of the song is largely due to its simplicity and accessibility. It's easy to learn, making it perfect for children and community singing. Its presence in German songbooks and school curricula has ensured its continued relevance throughout the years.

How the Song is Used Today

Today, "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache" remains a popular song, particularly among children. It's often sung in schools, kindergartens, and at home in the lead-up to May. It's a common activity to sing the song while planting flowers or decorating Maypoles (Maibaum).

Here are some common ways the song is used:

In Schools and Kindergartens: Teachers often teach the song to children as part of their spring curriculum. Activities related to the song may include drawing pictures of blooming flowers, planting seeds, or creating May decorations.
At Home: Families often sing the song together, especially during spring-related activities like gardening or walks in nature.
May Celebrations: The song is frequently sung during May Day celebrations and other spring festivals.
Choral Performances: Choirs, both amateur and professional, often include the song in their spring repertoire.

The "Maibaum" (Maypole) Tradition

The Maypole is a tall, decorated pole that is erected in villages and towns on May 1st. It's a central feature of May Day celebrations and a symbol of community, fertility, and spring.

The Maibaum is typically a tall, straight tree trunk (often a fir or spruce) that has been stripped of its bark and decorated with colorful ribbons, garlands, and symbols representing local trades and guilds. A wreath is often placed at the top of the pole, and sometimes a small fir tree is attached to the wreath. The raising of the Maibaum is a communal event, often accompanied by music, dancing, and traditional food and drink.

The tradition of the Maypole varies regionally in Germany. In some areas, the pole is left standing throughout the month of May, while in others, it's taken down after a few days. Stealing the Maibaum from a neighboring village is a common prank, adding to the festive atmosphere.

While singing "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache," the Maypole is often at the center of the festivities, symbolizing the flourishing spring that the song implores.

Beyond the Song: Other Spring Traditions

While "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache" is a key component of the German spring experience, there are several other traditions that add to the festive atmosphere:

Ostereier (Easter Eggs): The decoration and hiding of Easter eggs is a widespread tradition, symbolizing new life and resurrection.
Osterfeuer (Easter Bonfires): These bonfires, often lit on the Saturday before Easter, symbolize the burning away of winter and the welcoming of spring.
Spring Markets (Frühlingsmärkte): Many towns and cities host spring markets that offer a variety of seasonal goods, crafts, and food.
Bärlauch (Wild Garlic) Season: The arrival of spring also signals the start of wild garlic season. Germans often forage for wild garlic in forests and use it to make pesto, soups, and other dishes.

Why "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache" Matters

More than just a children's song, "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache" is a cultural touchstone that connects Germans to their history and to the cyclical rhythm of nature. It's a reminder of the hope and renewal that spring brings, and a celebration of the beauty of the natural world.

For expats and newcomers to Germany, understanding this song and the traditions surrounding it offers a valuable glimpse into German culture and provides an opportunity to participate in local celebrations. Learning the song and singing along is a simple but meaningful way to connect with the community and experience the joy of spring in Germany. By understanding the song's history and how it's used today, one can appreciate the deeper cultural significance it holds for many Germans.

So, the next time you hear the melody of "Komm, lieber Mai, und mache," take a moment to appreciate the tradition behind it and join in the joyful anticipation of spring's arrival. It's a little song with a big heart, embodying the German spirit of hope and renewal.