Dela

Johnny Clegg & Savuka's song 'Dela' is a poignant expression of longing and desire, wrapped in a metaphorical narrative that speaks to the universal search for connection and love. The lyrics convey a deep sense of yearning, with the singer comparing himself to a whale following an inner call, blindly swimming to reach the shore where his love awaits. This imagery suggests a natural, instinctive drive towards the object of his affection, emphasizing the intensity and purity of his feelings.

The repeated question about what would happen if he doesn't find his love upon arrival reveals a vulnerability and fear of rejection or abandonment. The reference to a dog howling at the moon is a metaphor for unrequited love or longing for something out of reach. It's a poignant image that captures the essence of the song's emotional landscape. The chorus, with its Zulu words 'dela' (pass by) and 'sondela' (come closer), and the phrase 'I burn for you' further express the singer's deep emotional investment and the fervent hope for closeness and union with the beloved.

The song also touches on themes of patience and redemption, as the singer has been waiting 'all my life' for a miracle, suggesting a transformative power of love. The image of a 'blind bird' singing in the heart's cage symbolizes the trapped and yearning spirit, while the desire to give shape to his ache and find the words to capture his love reflects the struggle to articulate profound emotions. Overall, 'Dela' is a rich tapestry of love, longing, and the quest for emotional fulfillment.