Meaning of "To Germany With Love" by Alphaville

The lyrics of "To Germany With Love" convey deep emotions and complex ideas. The song speaks from the perspective of an emigre, someone who has left their home country and is now writing to Germany. By using foreign words and a tongue of actuality, the speaker emphasizes their sense of being an outsider. The phrase "coated in grey gloves" adds a layer of mystery and seems to suggest that their message may be slightly obscured or disguised.

The repeated line "To Germany with love" implies a mix of affection and longing, perhaps indicating a complicated relationship between the speaker and Germany. The reference to a war between the wars could symbolize the ongoing struggle for peace and the existence of conflicts beyond the obvious ones. It might also represent a personal battle or internal conflict faced by the emigre.

The lyrics explore the idea of triumph over past sorrows and the potential for unity. The line "Let them all pursue this purpose till reality is gone" suggests a desire for people to work together towards a common goal, even if it means disregarding the harsh realities of life. The unexpected spy metaphor and the need to translate and comprehend further emphasize the theme of being an outsider trying to understand and communicate with Germany.

The song also touches on the concept of building a better future. The phrase "let us build a nightmare nation" can be interpreted as a call to create a society that learns from its past mistakes and is committed to progress. The reference to the "cold new generation" suggests a sense of change and transformation, but also evokes a certain fear or uncertainty. This fear is reiterated later in the lyrics with the line "faith in its own fears beget," suggesting that insecurity can lead to more insecurity.

The final verses introduce the image of a modern rat and a terror squad, contrasting with the previous idea of flourishing and blessing glory. This juxtaposition reflects the complexities of societal development, acknowledging both the potential for progress and the potential for negative outcomes. The closing repetition of "I write to Germany" reinforces the theme of communication and the attempt to bridge the gap between the emigre and their homeland.