Illegal
Grobschnitt Lyrics

The song "Illegal" by German rock band Grobschnitt addresses the issue of social injustice and the systemic oppression of the underprivileged by those in power. The opening lines describe the physical and emotional toll of feeling trapped and overwhelmed, with the singer expressing a sense of disorientation and confusion that hints at a larger sense of disempowerment. The following verse tells the story of an unfortunate individual who is unjustly punished for expressing himself creatively, with his "crime" being nothing more than singing and playing guitar in a public place. The use of the word "Knackt" (brutally punished) is particularly evocative, suggesting a level of violence and aggression that implies a deeper underlying brutality in the system being critiqued.

The next verse introduces another unfortunate individual, one who has become disillusioned with society and has given up on trying to make a difference. The imagery here is particularly poignant, with the individual giving away all his possessions and withdrawing from society entirely, eventually winding up in a mental institution. The final line, with its reference to a "Gummizelle" (rubber room), is particularly powerful, suggesting a sense of confinement and helplessness that connects both characters to the larger themes of social injustice and oppression that the song is exploring.

Overall, "Illegal" is a powerful commentary on the dangers of a society that values conformity over individuality, and the way that those who dare to challenge the status quo are often punished for their efforts. The song is a powerful indictment of the way that we rely on authority figures to tell us what is right and wrong, rather than trusting our own instincts and sense of morality.