Benden Öte Benden Ziyade

Barış Manço's song "Benden Öte Benden Ziyade" delves into the profound emotional and spiritual struggles of an individual. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with a deep sense of melancholy and isolation, symbolized by the cold cell and the heavy iron door. The recurring imagery of chains and locks on the heart underscores the feeling of being trapped and constrained by one's circumstances. Despite this, the presence of a loved one in dreams offers a glimmer of solace and hope, suggesting that love can transcend even the most oppressive situations.

The song also explores the theme of patience and endurance in the face of hardship. The repeated refrain, "Sabret gönül sabret, sakın isyan etme" (Be patient, heart, be patient, do not rebel), serves as a reminder to remain steadfast and hopeful. The reference to the "four books" and the divine name that is "beyond human" introduces a spiritual dimension, encouraging the listener to seek refuge in a higher power. This spiritual guidance is portrayed as a source of strength that is greater than any earthly possession or relationship.

In the final verses, Manço reflects on the concept of the self, suggesting that there is a deeper, more profound aspect of one's identity that transcends the physical and emotional self. The lines "Bir ben var ki benim içimde, benden öte benden ziyade" (There is a me within me, beyond me, more than me) and "Bir sen var ki senin içinde, senden öte senden ziyade" (There is a you within you, beyond you, more than you) highlight the idea of an inner self that is more significant and enduring than the external self. This introspective journey invites the listener to explore their own inner depths and find resilience and strength within.