Ezkongaietan

The song 'Ezkongaietan' by Herrikoiak delves into the theme of disillusionment and regret in marriage. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who once had high hopes and expectations for his married life, only to find himself living in sorrow and disappointment. The opening lines suggest that the protagonist believed marriage would bring fulfillment, but instead, he finds himself disillusioned and living in pain. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which explores the stark contrast between his dreams and the harsh reality he faces.

The second verse introduces the protagonist's wife, who was once considered beautiful. However, the hope that she would change for the better after marriage is shattered. The imagery of the wife being constantly near the fire, possibly indicating her constant presence in the kitchen or household chores, highlights the mundane and unchanging nature of their life together. The protagonist's expectations of transformation and improvement in their relationship are met with disappointment, as nothing seems to change for the better.

The third verse provides a more detailed and somewhat harsh depiction of the wife's current state. The description of dirty corners, disheveled hair, and a child hanging from her arm paints a picture of neglect and chaos. The mention of an old skirt with inappropriate patches and a large bottle of alcohol by her side suggests a life of disarray and possibly substance abuse. This imagery underscores the protagonist's sense of regret and the stark difference between his initial hopes and the reality he now faces.

The final verse highlights the wife's lack of enthusiasm for household responsibilities, as she only wakes up early when there is a festival to attend. Her frequent headaches before starting any work further emphasize her reluctance and the protagonist's frustration. The song concludes with a sense of inevitability, as the protagonist reflects on his lack of fear about what would happen with his wife, suggesting a resigned acceptance of his fate.