Usta

Ibrahim Tatlises, a legendary figure in Turkish music, delivers a poignant and deeply emotional narrative in his song 'Usta.' The lyrics paint a picture of a man who has been worn down by life's hardships and betrayals. The term 'usta,' which translates to 'master' or 'mentor,' is used here as a form of respect and a plea for understanding. The protagonist seeks solace and empathy from someone he looks up to, expressing his exhaustion and disillusionment with those he once considered close.

The song's opening lines, 'Gel otur yanıma derdimi dinle / Canım dediklerim yordu be usta,' set the tone for the entire piece. The protagonist invites the 'usta' to sit and listen to his troubles, lamenting how those he held dear have caused him pain. This sense of betrayal is further emphasized with the lines, 'Gözyaşın kaldıysa ağla benimle / Dostum bildiklerim vurdu be usta,' where he asks the 'usta' to cry with him if he still has tears left, as even those he considered friends have hurt him.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on his life, feeling that no one has ever truly understood his plight. The repeated refrain, 'Kimseler halim sormadı / Eyvahsız günüm olmadı / Tükendim birşey kalmadı / Bu nasıl yaşamak usta,' underscores his sense of isolation and despair. He feels that his youth and strength have been wasted, and he bids farewell to his younger self and the troubles that have plagued him, 'Elveda gençliğim elveda derde / Perdeler kapandı ömür sahnemde.' The imagery of curtains closing on the stage of his life is a powerful metaphor for the end of an era and the acceptance of his fate.

In the final verses, the protagonist acknowledges that he has reached the end of his journey, asking for forgiveness and understanding from the 'usta.' 'Vakit doldu artık bana müsaade / Hakkını helal et helal et usta,' he says, signaling his readiness to move on and his hope for absolution. The song 'Usta' is a moving exploration of human vulnerability, the pain of betrayal, and the search for peace and closure in the face of life's relentless challenges.