Song meaning of Viertel vor sieben by Reinhard Mey

The song "Viertel vor sieben" by Reinhard Mey conveys a longing for the past and the desire to return to a simpler and happier time. The lyrics tell the story of someone who is reminiscing about their childhood and their home. They yearn for the innocence and carefree nature of being young and the comfort and familiarity of their family home.

The song begins by describing a gloomy atmosphere with dark rain clouds and the sudden onset of twilight. The neon lights of a steelworks flicker in the background, while the windows in the town light up. This imagery sets the stage for a nostalgic journey back in time.

The narrator expresses their desire to go back to a specific moment before everything changed - "viertel vor sieben" (quarter to seven). This time signifies a moment of peace and happiness. They long to come home and experience the warmth and comfort of their family life. The mention of Saturday, pot cake, cocoa, and a brown baking pan evoke a sense of domestic bliss and nostalgia.

Throughout the song, various elements symbolize the loss and longing for the past. The narrator stumbles upon a letter in the mailbox, announcing the separation of a couple who seemed perfect together. This revelation shatters their belief in lasting love and happiness. The mention of the father listening to the radio in the living room, and the worry of being judged for one's appearance, represents the safety and security that home provides.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on how life has become harder and more complicated. The magic potion that used to bring solace no longer works, and the pain and sorrow seem deeper. The loss of innocence and the vulnerability of growing older become apparent. The lyrics express a yearning to leave behind the burdens of adulthood and return to a time when everything was simpler and the future seemed brighter.

In the final verses, the narrator wishes for a brief moment to return to that carefree state of mind. They long to believe that everything will turn out fine and to find refuge from the complexities of life. The song concludes with the repeated desire to go back to "viertel vor sieben" and come home, emphasizing the nostalgia and yearning for a time that can never be regained.

Overall, "Viertel vor sieben" is a poignant reflection on the longing for a simpler and happier past. It speaks to the universal desire to return to the innocence and security of childhood, highlighting the bittersweet reality of growing older and facing the challenges of adulthood.