Gockel, Hinkel und Gackeleia

In a wild forest between Gelnhausen and Hanau, a venerable old man named Gockel lives with his wife Hinkel and their little daughter Gackeleia in a crumbling castle that has been claimed by nature. Vines, trees and a chorus of harmless songbirds have turned the empty halls into a lively sanctuary, while the couple stubbornly refuses to let the fierce raptors move in, even though they could bring much‑needed provisions.

The story unfolds as Hinkel argues for the practical benefits of sharing the space with the predatory birds, while Gockel clings to an ideal of preserving the gentle melodies that fill their home. Their heated exchanges are peppered with witty, almost theatrical rhetoric, revealing a deeper satire about pride, survival and the absurdities of social hierarchy. The whimsical language and vivid descriptions make the tale feel like a lively fable, inviting listeners to enjoy its playful conflict and the charmingly eccentric world it creates.