Mesecina

Goran Bregovic's song 'Mesecina' is a haunting reflection on the devastation and loss brought about by war. The lyrics paint a bleak picture where the sun and moon no longer shine, symbolizing the absence of hope and normalcy. The repeated phrase 'Nema vise' (no more) underscores the totality of the loss—there is no sun, no moon, no 'you,' no 'me,' and ultimately, nothing left. This stark imagery conveys the profound emptiness and despair that war leaves in its wake.

The song's chorus, 'Mesecina, mesecina,' juxtaposes the moonlight with the darkness of war, creating a poignant contrast. The moonlight, often a symbol of romance and tranquility, here becomes a ghostly reminder of what once was. The line 'Sunce sija ponoc bije' (the sun shines, midnight strikes) further blurs the lines between day and night, reality and nightmare, suggesting a world turned upside down by conflict. The repetition of 'joj, joj, joj, joj' adds a mournful, almost wailing quality to the song, emphasizing the deep sorrow and confusion felt by those caught in the turmoil.

Bregovic's music often blends traditional Balkan sounds with modern influences, creating a unique and evocative style. In 'Mesecina,' this fusion serves to heighten the emotional impact of the lyrics. The song's lamentation over the unknown future—'Niko ne zna sta to sija' (no one knows what shines)—reflects the uncertainty and fear that accompany war. It is a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring hope for peace, even in the darkest of times.