Boginya Ishtar

Melnitsa's song "Boginya Ishtar" is a poetic invocation to the ancient Mesopotamian goddess Ishtar, who is often associated with love, war, and fertility. The lyrics are a series of pleas for protection and strength, reflecting the harsh realities of a warrior's life. The singer asks Ishtar to safeguard their tent, brothers, and sisters, symbolizing a desire for the safety and unity of their community amidst the chaos of conflict.

The repeated references to arrows, charms, and quivers highlight the constant presence of danger and the need for divine intervention in battle. The singer's plea for Ishtar to protect their fire and cauldron suggests a need for warmth, sustenance, and perhaps a touch of magic to survive the harsh conditions they face. The line "Vzyal menya -- khan!" ("The khan took me!") could imply a sense of being captured or overwhelmed by a powerful force, further emphasizing the need for Ishtar's protection.

The song also touches on themes of mortality and the desire for strength. The repeated wish for the old and the sick not to live reflects a brutal, survival-of-the-fittest mentality, which may be a commentary on the harshness of life in ancient times. The final plea for Ishtar to guide their herd to "tridevyat' lun" ("thirty-nine moons") suggests a longing for a prosperous and enduring future, far beyond the immediate struggles. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, "Boginya Ishtar" captures the timeless human desire for divine protection and the strength to overcome life's adversities.