Nikkelen Nelis (Zij kon het lonken niet laten)

Wim Sonneveld's song "Nikkelen Nelis (Zij kon het lonken niet laten)" is a poignant and cautionary tale about a woman whose flirtatious nature leads to her downfall. The song, delivered in a narrative style, tells the story of a woman from high society who cannot resist flirting with every man she encounters. This uncontrollable behavior ultimately causes her to lose her honor and reputation.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her descent. Initially, her husband dismisses her behavior as harmless, thinking she merely has something in her eye. However, her actions become more blatant, even flirting during church services, which leads to her being cast out. Her life spirals further as she becomes a dancer in a seedy bar, shedding her dignity along with her clothes. Despite her efforts to captivate men, she eventually grows too old to attract attention and ends up working in a retirement home. Even there, she continues her flirtatious ways, which ultimately leads to her tragic end when she trips and breaks her neck.

The song serves as a moral lesson, warning against the dangers of unchecked flirtation and the societal consequences of such behavior. Sonneveld's storytelling is both humorous and tragic, using the character of Nikkelen Nelis to explore themes of morality, reputation, and the fleeting nature of beauty and youth. The repeated refrain, "Zij kon het lonken niet laten," underscores the inevitability of her actions and the resulting misfortune, making it a memorable and impactful piece.