Hocemo li u Sabac na vasar
Saban Saulic
A Joyful Escape to the Fair: Saban Saulic's Celebration of Life
Saban Saulic's song "Hocemo li u Sabac na vasar" is a lively and spirited invitation to join in the festivities of a traditional fair in Sabac, a town in Serbia. The song captures the essence of communal joy and the simple pleasures of life, such as drinking, dancing, and socializing. The repetitive structure of the lyrics, with the recurring question-and-answer format, emphasizes the collective excitement and anticipation for the event. The fair, or 'vasar,' is a cultural staple in many Serbian communities, serving as a place where people come together to celebrate, forget their worries, and enjoy each other's company.
The lyrics also highlight the carefree and somewhat mischievous nature of the participants. Lines like "da idemo, da se napijemo" (let's go, let's get drunk) and "ja sam pijan, ko ce me popeti" (I am drunk, who will lift me up) reflect a lighthearted approach to life, where the focus is on having fun and living in the moment. The mention of taking a 'fijaker' (a horse-drawn carriage) adds a nostalgic touch, evoking a sense of tradition and the charm of simpler times.
Furthermore, the song contrasts different social interactions, humorously dismissing the idea of kissing 'stare babe' (old women) while expressing enthusiasm for 'cigancice' (young Romani girls), described as 'zive zeravice' (live embers). This playful comparison underscores the youthful exuberance and the desire for vibrant, passionate experiences. Saban Saulic, known for his contributions to the folk music genre, uses this song to paint a vivid picture of rural festivities, capturing the spirit of camaraderie and the joy of shared experiences.