Ich wollte nie
Marius Müller-Westernhagen Lyrics

The lyrics to Marius Müller-Westernhagen's song "Ich wollte nie" ("I never wanted") reflect on one's sense of self-worth and the struggle to find a place in the world. The song begins with a sense of detachment, as the singer observes that everything is going smoothly ("Es ist alles im Lot"), yet acknowledges the presence of darkness in the world ("Der Teufel frisst Fliegen"). The next line, "Und Gott hat nicht hingesehn" ("And God didn't notice"), suggests a sense of abandonment or lack of guidance. The singer then raises their finger, suggesting a desire to stand out or be recognized in some way. However, they recognize that they may have overestimated their own importance and that they cannot resist certain desires or impulses.

The lyrics then turn to focus on another person, perhaps a lover or friend, who is struggling to find their place as well. This person is characterized as an outsider who does not speak German, despite being born in the same place as the singer ("Du warst angekommen / Doch niemand sprach deutsch / Dabei warst du hier geboren"). The singer acknowledges this person's struggle to assert themselves ("Du wolltest dich wehren / Wusstest nicht gegen wen") and notes that time seems to have stopped for them ("Und plötzlich blieb die Zeit stehn").

The chorus repeats the line "Ich wollte nie, dass du mich weinen siehst" ("I never wanted you to see me cry"), suggesting a vulnerability and desire for mutual support. The second verse asks whether love and individuality can change the world, or whether one must conform to societal norms ("Oder marschierst du in Reih und Glied"). The singer invites the other person to come closer and shares a moment of quiet intimacy together ("Rück näher, näher zu mir"). The following lines evoke an image of playful children in autumn leaves ("In der Einsamkeit derer / Die im Herbstlaub spielen") and reflect on the other person's inner strength ("Und du trägst eine Rüstung / Doch dein Visier ist geöffnet / Und du sagst nur: Fürchte dich nicht").

The final verse includes a somewhat ironic reference to the singer being hailed as a hero of the revolution ("Und sentimental / Lass ich mich bejubeln / Als Held der Revolution"), while acknowledging that the other person is still struggling and being paid poorly ("Und du bist noch immer mein Sancho Pansa / Für 'nen Hungerlohn").