The Price of Fame
"Broederlijke haat" ("Brotherly Hatred") is a haunting, socially critical work that has lost none of its power, even thirty years later. The song touches upon themes such as senseless violence, the sensationalism of the media, and the universal nature of human aggression. It stands as one of the most confrontational tracks on the album, offering the listener no escape from the harsh reality of "the ditch along the street."
The lyrics of "Broederlijke haat" serve as a razor-sharp analysis of a tragedy that repeats itself day after day.
The musical arrangement reinforces the song’s somber message in a profound way—it is, in effect, a rock requiem.
"Broederlijke haat" is a poignant highlight on the album "Dodelijke nachtschaduw" ("Deadly Nightshade"). John Nicart succeeds in giving a face to an anonymous victim, while simultaneously issuing an indictment against the violent nature of humanity. It is a song that compels the listener to engage in self-reflection: how do we respond to the tragedies of others? It is an essential piece of music that proves rock, in 1995, was more than mere entertainment—it served as a moral conscience.
Translated lyrics:
A man has reached the general public
However, it is too late for him
He's not the one who gets the fame
Somewhere in a ditch along a street
It'll be in all the newspapers tomorrow
Is it an act of fear or hatred
Those pictures deliver from all sides
Somewhere in a ditch along a street
He's a victim
Of brotherly hatred
Like a soldier for his country
Like a nigger in the jungle
Just like a student in the square
Like a human to the subway
Everyone talks about this man
Even though he was not a diplomat
Everyone now knows him from
Somewhere in a ditch along a street
All he did was his job
Which stands for everyone's health
They say goodbye to him in a church
Somewhere on a ditch along a street
He's a victim
Of brotherly hatred
Like a soldier for his country
Like a nigger in the jungle
Just like a student in the square
Like a human to the subway
- Mastered by mixea.commore