Seksten Tons

Preben Uglebjerg's song 'Seksten Tons' delves deep into the life of a laborer, painting a vivid picture of the struggles and despair faced by those who work tirelessly in harsh conditions. The lyrics describe a man who toils away in a smoke-filled harbor, known only by a number rather than his name, highlighting the dehumanizing nature of his work environment. The repetitive task of unloading sixteen tons of cargo each day becomes a metaphor for the relentless and unending cycle of labor that defines his existence.

The song's protagonist reflects on his upbringing, born into a life where work was an inevitable part of his destiny. The imagery of his work clothes being hidden at the bottom of his cradle suggests that his fate was sealed from birth. This lack of choice and the absence of childhood play underscore the harsh realities of his life. The physical strength he gained from fighting rather than playing is now used to meet the daily quota of sixteen tons, further emphasizing the brutal and unforgiving nature of his world.

The lyrics also touch on the emotional and psychological toll of such a life. Memories of a troubled childhood, with a drunken father and a mother labeled as a 'tøs' (a derogatory term for a promiscuous woman), fuel his anger and resentment. This deep-seated hatred and defiance grow stronger with each load he carries. The song concludes with a sense of hopelessness and a loss of faith, as the protagonist sees himself as a 'menskefjensk tosse' (a misanthropic fool), tolerated only because he can perform the grueling task of unloading sixteen tons. Uglebjerg's poignant lyrics capture the essence of a life marked by relentless labor, emotional scars, and a profound sense of despair.