Ein Schifflein Sah Ich Fahren

“Ein Schifflein Sah Ich Fahren” is a traditional German folk song performed by a choir, capturing the life and journey of soldiers aboard a ship. The song is structured as a dialogue between the captain, lieutenant, and their soldiers, detailing various aspects of their lives, from their meals to their ultimate fate. The repetitive and rhythmic nature of the lyrics, combined with the choral arrangement, evokes a sense of camaraderie and shared experience among the soldiers.

The song begins with the imagery of a small ship carrying three brave companies of soldiers, setting the stage for a narrative that explores the daily lives and duties of these men. The captain and lieutenant are depicted as figures of authority, guiding the soldiers through their routines. The lyrics touch on the soldiers' sustenance, mentioning “gebrat’ne fisch mit kressen” (fried fish with cress) and the best wine available, highlighting the simple yet cherished pleasures in their otherwise harsh lives.

As the song progresses, it delves into the soldiers' sleeping arrangements, dancing locations, and even their spiritual journey. The soldiers are described as sleeping with their weapons, a testament to their readiness and the constant threat they face. The mention of dancing “vor Harburg auf der schanzen” (before Harburg on the ramparts) adds a touch of humanity and normalcy to their lives. The song concludes with a stark contrast between the soldiers' and officers' fates in the afterlife, with soldiers riding a white steed to heaven and officers being taken to hell on a black foal, reflecting a moral judgment on the different roles within the military hierarchy.

This folk song not only provides a glimpse into the lives of soldiers but also serves as a cultural artifact, preserving the values, humor, and social commentary of the time. The interplay between the mundane and the profound in the lyrics offers a rich tapestry of the human experience in the context of military life.