Composer Notes

Most people are familiar with the 15th century Protestant Reformation and the 18th century French Revolution, but far fewer know about the German Peasant Wars of 1524-25. This is probably because they weren’t all that successful! Nevertheless, these economic and political rebellions set the stage for what would come later. In particular, they created a fertile environment for the Reformation’s demand that people be free to interpret scripture for themselves — a notion referred to as “the priesthood of all believers.”

The folksong Die Gedanken sind Frei is thought to have predated the German Peasant Wars, but it quickly became their rallying cry. Centuries later, this song would be popularized by Pete Seeger, who sang an English translation by Arthur Kevass.

Desiring to create my own arrangement of this feisty song, I sought permission to use Arthur Kevass’ lyrics, but was not able to reach an agreement with the copyright owner. I’m embarrassed to admit that I sulked about this rejection for nearly five years before realizing that I was free to create my own English translation from the original German lyrics!

Early in the process of translating the lyrics it dawned on me that the original singers of Die Gedanken Sind Frei lacked not only freedom of religion and assembly, but also free speech. 16th century peasants reveled in the right to “think what I wish, but always discreetly,” and to “laugh and joke and think in my heart,” because to disagree openly was to invite not only ridicule, but also imprisonment or death. Thus, a completely literal translation of the song’s opening line reads: “My thoughts are free; no one can guess them.” However, modern protesters typically call for change through open vocalization of their thoughts! Thus, my translation proclaims: “Die Gedanken sind frei; I proudly profess them.”

This more overt tone notwithstanding, my translation of the first three verses is quite faithful to the original German lyric. But after the first three verse, the creativity of this 20th century lyricist could no longer be held captive. Starting with “They’re liable to change as I become older…” through the final “Fie!”, the lyrics are entirely my own.