Sigara
Şebnem Ferah
The Smoldering Ashes of Unfulfilled Desires
Şebnem Ferah's song "Sigara" delves into the poignant themes of unfulfilled desires, societal expectations, and the passage of time. The lyrics express a longing for a life that is carefree and glamorous, symbolized by the desire to run without crawling, wear beautiful dresses, and speak without thinking. These desires reflect a yearning for a simpler, more superficial existence, free from the burdens of deep thought and emotional complexity.
The metaphor of cigarette smoke and a matchstick is central to the song's narrative. The singer compares herself to cigarette smoke, which burns and eventually turns to ash, symbolizing the slow and painful process of being consumed by life's challenges and disappointments. In contrast, the other person is likened to the unlit end of a matchstick, representing someone who has passed through life without truly igniting or making a significant impact. This juxtaposition highlights the singer's sense of having lived intensely, albeit painfully, while the other person remains untouched and indifferent.
The song also touches on the importance of relationships and the bittersweet nature of love and friendship. The singer mentions having good friends who have become like family and nurturing a small love that ultimately succumbed to the pressures of life. This reflects the idea that while personal connections are valuable, they are often not enough to shield one from the harsh realities of the world. "Sigara" is a melancholic reflection on the complexities of life, the inevitability of change, and the emotional toll of unmet aspirations.