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Minister President Schnieder Seeks Quiet Amidst Busy Schedule
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany /Elections & Politics

Minister President Schnieder Seeks Quiet Amidst Busy Schedule

From Die Zeit · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Context piece
  • Rhineland-Palatinate's Minister President Gordon Schnieder finds quiet moments essential for recharging.
  • He has sought solitude since his school days, preferring silence over music.
  • Schnieder uses quiet car rides and walks to organize his thoughts and create personal space.

Rhineland-Palatinate's Minister President Gordon Schnieder finds solace in quiet moments, a preference he has held since his school days. "Nothing could distract me then," Schnieder recalled, having grown up with three siblings who enjoyed music ranging from Schlager to classical.

"My siblings always listened to something, from Schlager to classical music. I, on the other hand, simply needed quiet," he told the German Press Agency in Mainz. This need for tranquility persists in his adult life.

While Schnieder sometimes listens to music loudly when driving alone, he often prefers silence. "On most days, I drive in complete silence. Then I let the next speech run through my head," he explained. This quiet reflection extends to his leisure activities.

Whether hiking or jogging, Schnieder avoids music, stating, "I have my own thoughts then." The 51-year-old from the Eifel region emphasizes the importance of these moments for self-organization and personal space. "I simply don't need any hustle and bustle in such moments," he concluded.

Schon in der Schulzeit hatte ich dieses Bedรผrfnis. Da konnte mich nichts ablenken.

โ€” Gordon SchniederGordon Schnieder on his lifelong need for quiet moments.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.