Alter Mann (Old Man) English
Rammstein · Other Songs - Rammstein
the wave comes and lies down wearily
with a fan every day
the old one makes the water smooth
I throw the stone for fun
the water moves in circles
the old one looks sadly at me
and swept it smooth again
In the white sand, the old man
trembling, smokes his pipe
only the water and I know
why he needs this fan
The idea sleeps like a volcano
hesitating, I asked him then
his head bent, it seemed he slept
he said before he died
The water shall be your mirror
if it is smooth you will see
how many fairy tales remain for you
and you will plead for your redemption
The fan pressed against his body
the hand stiffens with rigor mortis
they had to break his fingers
the fan remains back in the sand
I call the old one every day
he would like to redeem me
I remain back in the midday's wind
and I can read in the fan
The water shall be your mirror
if it is smooth you will see
how many fairy tales remain for you
and you will plead for your redemption
Alter Mann (Old Man) English
Rammstein's "Alter Mann" serves as a stark, English-language counterpart to the band's iconic German track of the same name, released in 2004. While the original version explores themes of aging and societal decay through industrial metal and gothic rock, this rendition maintains the group's signature blend of heavy distortion and rhythmic precision. The song reflects the band's commitment to translating their complex narratives into English for international audiences without diluting their dark, apocalyptic aesthetic. It stands alongside other English versions of their discography, such as "Moskau" and "Amerika," showcasing Rammstein's ability to project their unique sound beyond linguistic boundaries while retaining the raw intensity characteristic of their early-to-mid 2000s era.