Inch Allah
Salvatore Adamo
A Lament for Peace in 'Inch Allah' by Salvatore Adamo
Salvatore Adamo's 'Inch Allah,' which translates to 'God willing' in Arabic, is a poignant song that reflects on the hope for peace amidst the backdrop of conflict, particularly in the Middle East. The lyrics paint a picture of the Orient, symbolizing beauty and serenity, but this image is quickly contrasted with the reality of Jerusalem, depicted as a 'poppy on a rock,' a symbol of beauty that is marred by the violence and bloodshed that the city has witnessed over the years. The song's narrative is one of sorrow and a plea for understanding and peace in a land torn by religious and political strife.
The song's chorus, 'Inch'Allah,' is a refrain that expresses a desire for a future where peace prevails, despite the current turmoil. The lyrics mention specific images such as the olive tree weeping for its companion and children trembling in fear, which evoke the human cost of the conflict. The reference to 'six million souls' without marble mausoleums and the 'infamous sand' that has seen the growth of six million trees is a clear allusion to the Holocaust and the subsequent establishment of the State of Israel. This line underscores the historical depth of suffering in the region and the enduring hope for reconciliation and growth.
Adamo's song is not just a lament; it is also a call to action. The mention of women falling in the storm and the blood that will be washed away the next day suggests the ongoing struggle and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics have made it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners who yearn for an end to conflict and a harmonious coexistence in a region that has seen too much bloodshed.