Plajvaz

Riblja Čorba's song 'Plajvaz' delves into the dark and tragic life of an individual who feels utterly isolated and rejected by society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is not only physically alone but also emotionally and mentally detached from the world around them. The protagonist describes a life devoid of meaningful connections, where even the basic human need for companionship is unmet. This sense of alienation is further emphasized by the setting 'in the city below Avala,' a reference to a mountain near Belgrade, suggesting a specific cultural and geographical context that adds depth to the narrative.

The song employs stark and brutal language to describe the protagonist's mental state. The use of medical terminology, such as 'idiot,' 'retarded,' and 'developmentally delayed,' highlights the harsh judgment and lack of empathy from society and medical professionals alike. The repeated phrase 'Uz'o lekar plajvaz, pa napis'o nalaz' (The doctor took a pencil and wrote the diagnosis) serves as a grim reminder of the protagonist's perceived worthlessness and the clinical, detached manner in which they are assessed. This dehumanizing treatment exacerbates their feelings of worthlessness and fuels their descent into despair.

The narrative takes a darker turn as the protagonist resorts to violence, driven by a desperate need to be noticed and acknowledged. The act of shooting from the rooftop of the Beogradjanka building, a well-known skyscraper in Belgrade, symbolizes a final, tragic attempt to make an impact on a society that has ignored and ostracized them. The song concludes with the protagonist's capture and institutionalization, a grim end that underscores the cyclical nature of their suffering. 'Plajvaz' is a poignant commentary on the devastating effects of social isolation, mental illness, and the desperate lengths to which individuals will go to be seen and heard.