Et Mi At Mashkah Dma'ot

Sivan Shavit's song "Et Mi At Mashkah Dma'ot" ("Who Are You Shedding Tears For") is a poignant exploration of solitude, longing, and introspection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman sitting on the steps outside her home, lost in her thoughts and emotions. The imagery of passing scenes, like pictures in a train window and birds flying without wanting to land, evokes a sense of life moving on while the protagonist remains stuck in her sorrow. This juxtaposition highlights her isolation and the emotional weight she carries.

The recurring question, "Et mi at mashkah dma'ot" ("Who are you shedding tears for"), suggests a deep, unresolved pain. The woman is not only shedding tears but also cursing someone, indicating a mix of grief and anger. The lyrics urge her to open the door and allow herself to see and experience life beyond her current state. This metaphorical door represents the barrier she has built around herself, and opening it symbolizes the possibility of healing and moving forward.

The song also touches on themes of beauty and the passage of time. The reference to beautiful women soaring into the sunset of their forties contrasts with the protagonist's static position, emphasizing her sense of being left behind. The blue ball stopping by her feet and the children laughing around her further underscore the life and joy that continue around her, even as she remains trapped in her melancholy. Shavit's evocative lyrics and haunting melody create a powerful narrative of a woman grappling with her inner turmoil and the challenge of breaking free from it.