Pintje drinken

Armand Preud'homme's song "Pintje drinken" is a delightful ode to the simple pleasures of sharing a beer with friends. The lyrics are steeped in cultural references and a sense of camaraderie, emphasizing the joy and communal spirit that comes with enjoying a pint together. The song opens with a nod to the Bruges catechism, which highlights the importance of feeding the hungry and quenching the thirst of those in need. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the act of drinking beer as a form of communal charity and joy.

The chorus, with its repetitive and catchy lines, "Pintje klinken, pintje drinken, jongens wat een zaligheid," translates to "Clinking pints, drinking pints, boys what a bliss." This refrain captures the essence of the song, celebrating the act of drinking beer as a blissful and almost sacred ritual. The imagery of a "schuimend biertje" (foamy beer) and a "bruine buik met witte kol" (brown belly with a white collar) paints a vivid picture of a freshly poured pint, inviting listeners to join in the merriment. The call to "Kom Karleentje, tap nog eentje, vul de glazen boordevol!" (Come Karleentje, pour another one, fill the glasses to the brim!) further emphasizes the communal and generous spirit of the gathering.

The song also weaves in religious references, such as the miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana, and the image of Saint Peter laughing in heaven as the pious drink water while enjoying "rijstepap met patersbier" (rice pudding with monks' beer). These references add a layer of humor and playfulness to the song, suggesting that even in religious contexts, the joy of sharing a drink is a universal pleasure. Overall, "Pintje drinken" is a heartwarming celebration of friendship, tradition, and the simple joys of life, inviting everyone to partake in the timeless ritual of clinking and drinking pints together.