Lau Haizetara

“Lau Haizetara” by Herrikoiak is a poetic journey through the Basque Country, capturing the essence of its landscapes, people, and culture. The title itself, which translates to “To the Four Winds,” sets the tone for a song that speaks to the far-reaching spirit and interconnectedness of the Basque regions. Each verse of the song is dedicated to a different part of the Basque Country, creating a tapestry of experiences and emotions tied to specific locations.

The song begins with the “haize gezala” or the salty sea breeze of Itsasondo, evoking the life of sailors and their verses. This imagery of the sea and the wind symbolizes freedom and the vastness of the world, suggesting a journey that transcends physical boundaries. As the song progresses, it moves inland to the fields of Iruñea (Pamplona) during harvest time, where the scent of wheat and the songs of the reapers fill the air. This shift from the sea to the land highlights the diversity of the Basque landscape and the different ways of life within it.

Further verses take us to Baiona (Bayonne), Vitoria, and Bilbao, each with its own unique cultural and emotional significance. The mention of “ezpain erien portu galdua” (the lost port of lovers) in Baiona adds a layer of romantic longing, while the “muga zaharrak mahastietan” (old borders in the vineyards) in Vitoria speaks to the historical and agricultural richness of the region. The final verse, with its reference to the “burnizko bihotz arraildua” (broken iron heart) of Bilbao, touches on themes of industrial hardship and resilience. The repeated refrain “Zoaz urruti aidean, Lau haizetara” (Go far away, to the four winds) serves as a call to embrace the journey and the connections between these places, ultimately uniting them under the broader identity of Euskal Herria (the Basque Country).

The song is a celebration of Basque identity, weaving together the natural, cultural, and emotional landscapes of the region. It speaks to the enduring spirit of the Basque people and their deep connection to their land and heritage.