Mijn Engelbewaarder

Herman Finkers' song "Mijn Engelbewaarder" ("My Guardian Angel") is a poetic and whimsical exploration of the relationship between the narrator and his guardian angel. The song delves into the intimate and almost sacred conversations they share, particularly about poetry. The narrator finds these discussions to be the most refined and delicate, suggesting that poetry itself is a divine gift, bestowed by the Holy Spirit. This connection between poetry and divinity elevates the art form to a spiritual experience, where the beauty of words becomes a heavenly dialogue.

The lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors that highlight the narrator's passion for poetry. The guardian angel, who affectionately calls the narrator "Mijn boefje" ("My little rascal"), becomes a symbol of divine inspiration and guidance. The angel's playful yet wise presence suggests a balance between creativity and restraint. The narrator's exuberance for the rhythmic and metrical aspects of poetry is palpable, as he describes the joy and beauty found in the structure and sound of verses. This enthusiasm is tempered by the angel's gentle reminder to not get carried away, maintaining a sense of humility and reverence.

Finkers' use of language and rhythm in the song mirrors the very poetry he celebrates. The rolling rhythm and vibrant rhyme schemes create a musicality that enhances the lyrical content. The song becomes a meta-commentary on the act of creating poetry, where the process itself is as important as the product. Through this divine dialogue, Finkers invites listeners to appreciate the spiritual and aesthetic dimensions of poetry, encouraging a deeper connection with the beauty of words and the inspiration behind them.