Peremen!

Kino's song 'Peremen!' (translated as 'Changes!') is a powerful anthem that captures the spirit of a generation yearning for transformation. The lyrics, written by Viktor Tsoi, reflect the disillusionment and frustration of Soviet youth in the 1980s. The song opens with stark imagery contrasting warmth and coldness, light and darkness, symbolizing the bleak reality of their lives. The 'red sun burning to ashes' and the 'shadow falling on the blazing city' evoke a sense of impending doom and the urgent need for change.

The chorus, with its repeated cry for 'Peremen!' (Changes!), is a rallying call that resonates deeply with the listeners. It speaks to the collective desire for a new beginning, a break from the monotonous and oppressive routine. The mention of 'electric light continuing our day' and 'the blue flower of gas burning in the kitchen' highlights the mundane and repetitive nature of their existence. Yet, amidst this simplicity, there is a profound realization that everything they need for change is within themselves.

In the final verse, Tsoi acknowledges the fear of change, despite the overwhelming desire for it. The line 'we cannot boast of the wisdom of our eyes or the skillful gestures of our hands' suggests a lack of experience or confidence. However, the song emphasizes that understanding and connection do not require these attributes. The recurring imagery of 'cigarettes in hand, tea on the table' symbolizes the comfort of familiarity, yet it also represents the closed loop they are trapped in. The song ends with a powerful declaration that change is not just a desire but a necessity, echoing the pulse of a generation ready to break free from the past.