Kampf und Sturm

Kanonenfieber's song "Kampf und Sturm" delves into the harrowing experiences of a German U-boat crew during World War I. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the relentless and perilous nature of submarine warfare. The song opens with the crew setting off from Brügge, fully aware of their mission and the dangers that lie ahead as they navigate the waters from Folkstone to Le Havre. The recurring phrase "Im Kampf und Sturm" (In battle and storm) underscores the constant state of conflict and the tumultuous conditions they face.

The song captures the tension and urgency of submarine operations. The crew must remain vigilant, as they are isolated and scattered across the English Channel, operating alone without support. The imagery of the sea roaring and rising, sweeping over the stern, and the lookout's urgent cries to the officer highlight the ever-present threat of the elements and enemy forces. The British efforts to thwart them with U-boat nets and mines add to the sense of danger and the high stakes of their mission.

As the U-boat crew prepares to engage their first target, a large merchant ship, the lyrics convey the meticulous and nerve-wracking process of setting up a torpedo attack. The tension peaks as the depth gauge rises and the torpedo is readied for launch. However, the attack goes awry due to a miscalculation, and the torpedo misses its mark, sinking to the ocean floor. The crew's frustration and the mechanical failures that follow, such as the main engine breaking down, further emphasize the harsh realities and unpredictability of submarine warfare. "Kampf und Sturm" is a powerful portrayal of the bravery, resilience, and hardships faced by U-boat crews during wartime.