Tiere

Nina Hagen's song 'Tiere' is a poignant critique of human cruelty towards animals, juxtaposing the innocence and purity of animals with the often harsh and exploitative behavior of humans. The lyrics open with a powerful statement: 'Tiere Wuerden sowas niemals tun,' which translates to 'Animals would never do such things.' This sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing that animals, unlike humans, do not engage in acts of cruelty or exploitation. Hagen implores the listener to respect animals, highlighting the sacredness of creatures like cows and the natural habitats of jungle animals.

The song continues to criticize the confinement of animals in zoos and their use in fashion and cuisine. Hagen argues that animals belong in their natural environments, not in cages or as accessories for the wealthy. She vividly describes the plight of frogs and toads, which are often used in soups, and condemns the practice of keeping birds in cages, forcing them to sing. The imagery of pigs being fattened and sent to slaughterhouses, where they are hung on hooks and skinned, is particularly harrowing and serves to underscore the brutality of such practices.

Hagen also draws a personal connection to animals, referring to elephants as her relatives and expressing her love for painting whales. This personal touch adds depth to the song, making it not just a general critique but a heartfelt plea for empathy and respect for all living beings. Through 'Tiere,' Nina Hagen calls for a more compassionate and humane treatment of animals, urging listeners to recognize their intrinsic value and right to live free from harm.