Wortkarger Wolfram

Rainald Grebe's song 'Wortkarger Wolfram' paints a vivid picture of a character named Wolfram, who is defined by his reticence and lack of expressiveness. The song opens by contrasting Wolfram's quiet nature with his parents' more vibrant personalities—his father being a rhetoric teacher and his mother being loud and cheerful. This sets the stage for understanding Wolfram's unique disposition, which is further emphasized by the repeated phrase 'Wortkarger Wolfram,' meaning 'taciturn Wolfram.'

The lyrics delve into Wolfram's upbringing, describing it as filled with love and acoustic experiences, yet his silence remains a dominant trait. The song suggests that Wolfram's silence has a profound impact on his mood, as seen in the line 'Schweigen schlägt schön auf's Gemüt,' which translates to 'Silence beautifully affects the mind.' This line hints at the introspective and possibly melancholic nature of Wolfram's character. His lack of expressiveness is also highlighted by the fact that he is not a 'Weiberschwarm' (ladies' man) due to his 'ausdrucksarm' (expressionless) face.

The song takes a satirical turn when it comments on modern society's obsession with trends and superficiality. The mention of 'Werbefuzzies' (advertising people) making arugula a trendy salad and the idea that weeds from abroad are considered lucky if they gain acceptance, serve as metaphors for the arbitrary nature of societal values. Wolfram's response to the world's demands for communication is stark and unyielding, as he represents the 'Imperium der Klötze' (Empire of Blocks), a metaphor for his impenetrable and uncommunicative nature. This final image underscores the theme of isolation and the struggle to connect in a world that values constant interaction.