Ruder translates to "rudder", the steering mechanism of a boat. It's an interesting word because it's not commonly found in everyday German pop songs, making it stand out.
In the context of Nena's song, the phrase "Wir drehen das Ruder rum" (We turn the rudder around) is a powerful metaphor for taking control and changing direction in life. It signifies agency and the ability to alter one's course, aligning with the song's themes of self-belief and hope for the future.
Nena's song "Licht," which means "Light" in English, is a powerful anthem of unity, hope, and change. The song begins by asking deep questions about your feelings, identity, and life path: "Do you know who you are?" and "Do you want to change your life?" It quickly expands from the individual to the collective, reminding us that "It's about you, about me, about us and everyone."
The core message is one of empowerment and resilience. Nena sings that we all "come from love" and that in the face of challenges, the response is to "send light, light, light." The song contains a powerful call to action, referencing "A Friday for the future" and encouraging listeners to stand up and believe in themselves. It's a reminder that you are not alone and that together, by spreading positivity and taking a stand, we have the power to create change because *"it's not too late."