In Germany Before The War was introduced to me by my Music Director. After having played it for me a couple of times I then sang it and was overwhelmed at how mysteriously enchanting a story it tells. A close friend of mine and I were talking about the song and the thoughts it triggers. My friend went on to tell me his story of his long ago visits to the Rhine when he would stand at the shore and witness the multitudes of elderly ladies all alone gazing out and walking their dogs along the shore. Gone were the lovers, husbands and sons killed in the war. I lament their sadness and solitude that comes from losing a loved one due to circumstances beyond their control.