Dubrovaèka zvona

Tereza Kesovija's song "Dubrovaèka zvona" is a poignant tribute to the resilience and spirit of Dubrovnik, a historic city in Croatia. The lyrics evoke a deep sense of pain and healing, as the singer reflects on the wounds inflicted upon the city and its people. The imagery of 'Slano i Ljutu na ranu' (salt and bitterness on the wound) and 'suza me dovoljno peče' (tears burn enough) captures the emotional and physical scars left by conflict. Yet, there is a glimmer of hope as the singer vows to 'povit ću ranjenu ruku' (bandage the wounded hand) and sees a 'dragulj na dlanu' (jewel in the palm), symbolizing recovery and the preciousness of peace.

The chorus, with its reference to the bells of Dubrovnik ('dubrovačka zvona'), serves as a powerful metaphor for the announcement of peace and the return of normalcy. The bells are not just a call to prayer but a proclamation of hope and unity. The mention of St. Vlaho, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, descending from his throne to walk among the people on Stradun, the main street, signifies divine intervention and the blending of the sacred with the everyday life of the city. This imagery reinforces the idea that peace and healing are both a communal and spiritual journey.

The song also highlights the cultural and geographical richness of the Dubrovnik region, from Konavle to Ston. The 'ječet će od Čilipa do Stona' (echo from Čilipi to Ston) line emphasizes the widespread impact of the bells' message, uniting various parts of the region in a shared experience of relief and hope. The final verse, with its promise of moving forward together ('pa ćemo krenuti skupa'), underscores the collective effort required to rebuild and reclaim the 'zeleni raj' (green paradise) from which the people were exiled. Kesovija's heartfelt delivery and the evocative lyrics make "Dubrovaèka zvona" a moving anthem of resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of Dubrovnik.