Clementine

Gerhard Schöne's song "Clementine" is a darkly humorous take on the traditional folk ballad, blending absurdity with a touch of melancholy. The song tells the story of a miner named August who works in a dark cave, searching for diamonds for his aunt, accompanied by his daughter, Clementine. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Clementine, describing her as delicate as a horse, with gray hair and wearing large herring cans as shoes. This exaggerated imagery sets the tone for the song's blend of humor and tragedy.

The chorus, "Oh mein Darling, oh mein Darling, oh mein Darling Clementin," is a playful nod to the classic American folk song "Oh My Darling, Clementine." However, Schöne's version adds a twist with the lines "Zuckersaae Trampelfaae, habschen Kapfchen, Stroh darin," which translate to "sweet clumsy feet, pretty little head, straw inside." This suggests a fond yet mocking remembrance of Clementine, highlighting her endearing yet foolish nature.

The narrative takes a tragic turn when Clementine, while leading her ducks and pig to drink, stumbles and falls into the river. The imagery of giant bubbles rising from the water, likened to a Zeppelin, adds a surreal touch to the scene. The narrator's helplessness, as he cannot swim, leads to Clementine's loss. The song concludes with the narrator expressing his sorrow and attempting to move on by courting Clementine's sisters, yet he still cannot forget her. This blend of humor, absurdity, and tragedy makes "Clementine" a unique and memorable piece in Schöne's repertoire, reflecting his ability to infuse traditional themes with a modern, satirical twist.