Sawwah

Abdel Halim Hafez's song "Sawwah" is a poignant exploration of longing, separation, and the emotional turmoil that accompanies a life of wandering. The term "sawah" translates to "vagabond" or "wanderer," setting the stage for a narrative steeped in the melancholy of a life spent in perpetual motion, far from the comforts of home and the embrace of a beloved. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who is constantly on the move, traversing countries and enduring the passage of time, all while carrying the weight of his unfulfilled desires and the pain of separation.

The chorus serves as a heartfelt plea to anyone who might encounter his beloved, asking them to convey his greetings and to reassure him about her well-being. This recurring request underscores the depth of his yearning and the helplessness he feels in his current state. The imagery of walking through nights, sleepwalking, and not knowing what he's doing further emphasizes his disorientation and emotional distress. The separation from his beloved is not just a physical distance but a profound emotional chasm that leaves him feeling lost and adrift.

Throughout the song, there are references to the passage of time and the enduring nature of his sorrow. The lines "And years and years and I'm melting in longing and tenderness" highlight the prolonged suffering and the intensity of his emotions. The moon, often a symbol of guidance and hope, is invoked as a witness to his plight, and he beseeches it to show him the way to his beloved. This celestial imagery adds a layer of universality to his experience, suggesting that his feelings of longing and separation are timeless and shared by many.

"Sawwah" is a masterful blend of lyrical poetry and emotional depth, capturing the essence of human longing and the pain of being separated from a loved one. Abdel Halim Hafez's soulful delivery and the evocative lyrics make this song a timeless classic that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the ache of unfulfilled love and the yearning for reunion.