Tausend Jahre sind ein Tag

Udo Jürgens' song "Tausend Jahre sind ein Tag" delves into the timeless curiosity and existential questions that often arise during youth. The lyrics begin with a series of innocent yet profound questions posed by a child, such as the number of stars in the sky, the direction of rivers, and the nature of rain. These questions symbolize the innate curiosity and wonder that children possess about the world around them. The adult response, however, is dismissive, suggesting that the child is too young to understand such complexities and that there is plenty of time to learn these things later.

As the song progresses, the questions evolve from simple natural phenomena to more complex societal issues. The lyrics touch on themes of greed, hunger, and freedom, questioning why people become insatiable, why there is a hunger in the world, and whether one can truly be free without taking risks. These questions reflect the growing awareness and critical thinking that come with age. The adult response remains dismissive, urging the youth to first achieve something before questioning the status quo, implying that understanding and wisdom come with time and experience.

In the final verses, the song takes a darker turn, addressing environmental degradation and the threat of war. The lyrics question the sustainability of the world, the depletion of natural resources, and the looming danger of armed conflict. The song ends with a powerful message, urging the youth to continue asking questions and challenging the world around them, as they represent the future and the passage of time. The refrain, "Was ist Zeit? - Ein Augenblick, Ein Stundenschlag, Tausend Jahre sind ein Tag!" emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and the importance of seizing the moment to seek answers and make a difference.