Oy, To Ne Vecher

Arkona's song 'Oy, To Ne Vecher' is a haunting and evocative piece that delves into the realm of dreams and premonitions. The lyrics, sung in Russian, tell the story of a person who experiences a vivid and unsettling dream. The recurring line 'Oy, to ne vecher, to ne vecher' translates to 'Oh, it is not evening, it is not evening,' suggesting a sense of timelessness and the blurring of reality and dreams.

In the dream, the narrator sees their black horse becoming wild and uncontrollable, symbolizing chaos and a loss of control. This imagery is powerful, as horses often represent freedom and power, and the black horse's behavior could signify impending danger or turmoil. The winds from the east that strip the narrator's hat from their head further enhance the sense of foreboding, as the east is traditionally associated with new beginnings or significant changes.

The appearance of the yesaul, a Cossack officer, who interprets the dream, adds a layer of cultural depth to the song. The yesaul's interpretation that the narrator's 'buyna golova' (wild head) will be lost suggests a prophecy of doom or a warning of a significant threat. This interpretation ties the dream to a real-world consequence, making the song a poignant reflection on fate and the inevitability of certain events. Arkona, known for their blend of folk and metal, uses this song to weave a narrative that is both mystical and grounded in cultural symbolism, creating a rich tapestry of sound and story.