Wij zijn de mannen
Sam Gooris
Celebrating Traditional Masculinity with a Playful Twist
Sam Gooris' song "Wij zijn de mannen" is a lively and playful anthem that celebrates traditional masculine roles and behaviors. The lyrics are filled with humor and a sense of camaraderie, as the men in the song take pride in their abilities to fix things, entertain, and sometimes annoy the women around them. The repeated chorus, "Wij zijn de mannen die de gaas doen branden, De klinken repareren en de vrouwen ambeteren," emphasizes their self-assuredness and the joy they find in their roles.
The song also touches on the idea of self-perception and societal expectations. When the men look in the mirror, they see a "real man," someone who can do everything. This reflects a traditional view of masculinity, where being handy, entertaining, and accepting of all situations are seen as key traits. The lyrics, "Altijd amuseren, alles accepteren, Ja, zo is een echte man," suggest that a real man is always having fun and accepting whatever comes his way, reinforcing a carefree and resilient attitude.
Additionally, the song includes a sense of community and shared identity among men. The lines, "Altijd attent en steeds content, Da's eigen aan een vent," highlight the idea that being attentive and content is inherent to being a man. The playful nature of the song, with its lalalalala refrains and humorous lines about fixing cars and smearing bottoms, adds a light-hearted touch to the celebration of these traditional masculine traits. Overall, "Wij zijn de mannen" is a fun and spirited tribute to the classic image of manhood, filled with humor and a sense of pride in their roles.