Auf Den Untergang

“Auf Den Untergang” by Gigi Und Die Braunen Stadtmusikanten is a song steeped in disillusionment and anger towards the current state of society and governance. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a nation in decline, with references to historical figures like Bismarck, who once symbolized strength and unity. The song laments the destruction of what was once great, now reduced to rubble and chaos. This sense of loss is compounded by the belief that those in power are corrupt and have betrayed the nation for personal gain.

The chorus, “Auf den Untergang, heb dein Glas, auf den Untergang,” translates to “To the downfall, raise your glass, to the downfall.” This repeated line serves as a bitter toast to the perceived inevitable collapse. It’s a call to acknowledge the decay and perhaps even to embrace it, as the song suggests that the current state of affairs is beyond repair. The lyrics criticize social reforms and corruption, accusing the leaders of deliberately destroying the nation for profit. This sentiment reflects a deep-seated frustration with the political and social systems in place.

The song also takes aim at the general populace, calling them cowardly, gullible, and foolish for allowing themselves to be manipulated. There’s a sense of grim satisfaction in the idea that the people will pay for their ignorance with tears and blood. The final verse suggests a nihilistic acceptance of chaos as a necessary precursor to rebirth. The line, “Das Werdende sucht Chaos, das Chaos als Form,” implies that out of chaos, a new order will emerge. The song ends on a note of defiance, with the hope that true patriots will stand by their country even as it falls apart.