Links Rechts

A+P's song 'Links Rechts' is a powerful and provocative critique of militarism and the resurgence of fascist ideologies. The repetitive chant of 'Links Rechts' (Left Right) juxtaposed with 'Vor allem Rechts' (Above all, Right) underscores the song's central theme: the alarming shift towards right-wing extremism. The lyrics highlight the perpetuation of militaristic values and the glorification of the Wehrmacht, Germany's World War II military force, suggesting a disturbing continuity from the Nazi era to the present day.

The song criticizes the military's role in protecting capitalist interests against perceived communist threats, reflecting Cold War anxieties and the fear of the Eastern Bloc. The line 'Die Wehrmacht muss bestehn / Damit sie nicht unter gehn' (The Wehrmacht must exist / So it does not perish) implies a cyclical nature of militarism, where the military's existence is justified by the need to defend against external enemies. This creates a perpetual state of fear and militarization, draining public resources ('Sie verpulvern unser Geld') and prioritizing defense spending over social welfare.

A+P also addresses the indoctrination of young men into the military, transforming civilians into fascists ('Man züchtet Zivilisten / Zum Faschisten'). The song portrays the military as a dehumanizing institution that suppresses critical thinking ('Denken nichts ist mehr / Du bist beim Militär') and punishes intellectual dissent ('Und bist du zu schlau / Kommst du in den Bau'). The ultimate outcome is a populace conditioned to obey without question, becoming 'brave democrats' who conform to authoritarian norms. 'Links Rechts' serves as a stark warning against the dangers of unchecked militarism and the insidious spread of fascist ideologies in society.