Alptraum (translation)

Nina Hagen's 'Alptraum' (translated as 'Nightmare') is a chilling exploration of the darker recesses of the human psyche. The song delves into themes of fear, guilt, and the inescapable nature of one's inner demons. Hagen's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relentless nightmare that haunts the protagonist, embodying their deepest fears and anxieties. The repeated questioning of whether the listener misses her during various times of the day and year adds a layer of eerie intimacy, suggesting a personal connection between the nightmare and the individual it torments.

The imagery in the song is both vivid and disturbing. Hagen describes herself as a nightmare that comes at dawn, giving a withering look and turning the listener into an assassin and a traitor. This transformation signifies the loss of control and the overwhelming power of the nightmare. The lyrics also depict physical torment, with sweat driven deep into the brain and the head impaled on a pole, nibbled by a rat. These grotesque images serve to heighten the sense of horror and helplessness experienced by the protagonist.

The song's refrain, 'I kill you a thousand times... a trillion-fold,' emphasizes the relentless and repetitive nature of the nightmare. This repetition underscores the inescapability of the torment, suggesting that the protagonist is trapped in an endless cycle of fear and suffering. The final lines reiterate the nightmare's power, turning the listener into an assassin and a traitor, driving the sweat from their brow deep into their brain. This relentless pursuit and transformation highlight the pervasive and consuming nature of the nightmare, leaving the listener with a sense of unease and dread.

Nina Hagen, known for her eclectic and avant-garde style, uses 'Alptraum' to explore the psychological and emotional impact of nightmares. The song's haunting lyrics and disturbing imagery create a powerful and unsettling experience, reflecting the artist's ability to delve into the darker aspects of the human experience.