Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a picture of diverse activities, all prefaced by the refrain "Jeder so, wie er mag" (Everyone as they like). We see early risers, single-handed sailors, flight attendants, and touring musicians, each engaging in their pursuits. The narrator lists these varied actions, from the mundane to the more specific, creating a sense of broad acceptance for individual choices and lifestyles. It suggests a world where people pursue their passions or routines without judgment.
The central tension emerges in the chorus, where the narrator shifts from observing others to making a personal plea: "Tu's woanders oder hier / Tu was immer du auch tun willst / Aber bitte tu's mit mir" (Do it elsewhere or here / Do whatever you want to do / But please do it with me). This pivot introduces a desire for connection amidst the celebration of individual freedom. The narrator wants to share in these varied experiences, whatever they may be, highlighting a longing to be included or to participate alongside others.
The craft lies in the juxtaposition of the detached observation in the verses with the intimate request in the chorus. The verses catalog a wide array of people and their actions – from "Frühaufsteher" (early risers) to "Kanzler" (chancellors) – emphasizing variety and personal preference. This broad scope makes the final, singular request in the chorus, "Aber bitte tu's mit mir," all the more poignant. It grounds the abstract idea of individual freedom in a concrete desire for shared experience.
This contrast is what makes the lyrics resonate. By first establishing a world of independent action and then expressing a yearning for companionship, the song captures a common human experience. The simple, direct language of the chorus makes the plea feel genuine and relatable, suggesting that even within our own unique pursuits, the desire to share them with someone special remains a powerful motivator.