Versatile writer Hans Leip was born on September 22, 1893 in Hamburg, Germany. Hans grew up around the sea shore in Hamburg; his father worked on the docks and traveled all over the sea during his holidays. From 1914 to 1918 Leip served as a German soldier in the War of the Guards. During his tour of duty in World War I Hans was inspired to write the lovely and touching poem "Lili Marleen" in 1915. The title of this poem was reportedly the combined first names of Leip's girlfriend and another female friend. Composer Norbert Schultze created a melody for "Lili Marleen" in 1938; the resultant song became a favorite tune amongst German soldiers fighting in World War II. Among the notable artists who have covered "Lili Marleen" are Lale Andersen, Marlene Dietrich, Hank Snow, and Vaughn Monroe. Hans worked for a brief spell as a teacher, but was primarily active as a journalist both as a humorous writer and draftsman for the weekly publication "Simplicissimus." Moreover, Leip also wrote poetry and plays and illustrated many of his own books that include unpretentious novels about sea and harbor life which were full of adventure and vitality. He was an opponent of the Nationalist Socialist regime in Germany. An autobiography on Hans' life was published in 1979. Leip died at age 89 on June 6, 1983 in Fruthwilen, Turgau, Switzerland.

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Hans Leip

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