Iss nix Fisch mit Messer

Normahl's song "Iss nix Fisch mit Messer" is a satirical narrative that delves into the life of a Gypsy family, highlighting the ironies and contradictions in the moral lessons imparted by the father. The song opens with a vivid image of a horse-drawn wagon arriving from the Puszta, a vast Hungarian plain, carrying a Gypsy man, his family, and their dog. This setting immediately evokes a sense of traditional, nomadic life, rich with cultural heritage and customs.

The father, in a stern tone, lectures his son on proper behavior, emphasizing etiquette and social norms. He advises against eating fish with a knife when a fork is available, kissing married women, and running in traffic. These lessons are meant to instill a sense of propriety and caution, reflecting the father's desire to see his son navigate the world with respect and wisdom. However, the father's own actions starkly contrast with his teachings. He returns home drunk, disheveled, and with a torn shirt, embodying the very behaviors he warns against.

This juxtaposition between the father's moralizing and his actual conduct serves as a critique of hypocrisy and the often flawed nature of human behavior. The song uses humor and irony to underscore the gap between ideals and reality, suggesting that moral lessons are easier preached than practiced. Normahl, known for their punk rock style, often infuses their music with social commentary, and "Iss nix Fisch mit Messer" is no exception. The song invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of morality and the importance of authenticity in one's actions.