Vilja-Lied

Tarja's rendition of 'Vilja-Lied' is a hauntingly beautiful piece that delves into the mystical and enchanting world of folklore. The song tells the story of a young hunter who encounters Vilja, a forest maiden, in the rocky terrain. The hunter is immediately captivated by her ethereal beauty and feels an overwhelming sense of longing and desire. This initial encounter sets the stage for a tale of love that transcends the ordinary, as the hunter becomes entranced by the forest maiden.

The lyrics describe the hunter's deep yearning and the almost supernatural pull he feels towards Vilja. His plea, 'Vilja, oh Vilja, du Waldmägdelein, Faß mich und laß mich dein Herzliebster sein!' (Vilja, oh Vilja, you forest maiden, take me and let me be your beloved!), reflects his desperate desire to be with her. This longing is not just physical but also emotional, as he is consumed by a love that seems otherworldly. The forest maiden, in turn, reaches out to him and draws him into her rocky abode, where they share a love that is described as unlike any earthly experience.

However, this love is fleeting. After their passionate encounter, Vilja disappears, leaving the hunter in a state of longing and sorrow. The repeated refrain of 'Vilja, oh Vilja, was tust du mir an! Bang fleht ein liebkranker Mann' (Vilja, oh Vilja, what are you doing to me! An anguished, love-sick man pleads) underscores the hunter's heartache and the ephemeral nature of their love. This song captures the essence of a love that is both magical and tragic, highlighting the themes of longing, enchantment, and the bittersweet nature of fleeting beauty.

Tarja's powerful and emotive delivery adds depth to this timeless tale, making 'Vilja-Lied' a captivating and poignant piece that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level.