Moskva-Odessa

Vladimir Vysotsky's song 'Moskva-Odessa' captures the frustration and absurdity of a seemingly endless journey between Moscow and Odessa. The lyrics describe repeated delays and cancellations of flights, with the protagonist feeling trapped in a cycle of waiting and disappointment. The song opens with the protagonist noting that once again, the flight from Moscow to Odessa is delayed. The stewardess, described as reliable and regal, symbolizes the civil aviation system that is both dependable and frustratingly out of reach.

The song's narrative takes the listener through various cities that are open for travel, such as Murmansk, Ashkhabad, Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv, but none of these destinations matter to the protagonist. His sole focus is on reaching Odessa, a city that remains elusive due to constant delays. This repeated mention of other cities highlights the protagonist's singular obsession with Odessa, making the delays even more exasperating. The song also touches on the unpredictability of weather and other external factors that contribute to the delays, adding to the sense of helplessness.

Vysotsky's lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references. The stewardess, who is compared to a princess and the entire civil aviation fleet, represents the unattainable and the bureaucratic hurdles that people often face. The repeated delays and the protagonist's unwavering determination to reach Odessa can be seen as a metaphor for life's struggles and the pursuit of one's goals despite numerous obstacles. The song also reflects the broader Soviet experience of dealing with inefficiencies and the often absurd nature of bureaucratic systems.

'Moskva-Odessa' is a poignant commentary on the human condition, capturing the frustration of unfulfilled desires and the relentless pursuit of one's goals. Vysotsky's powerful storytelling and evocative imagery make this song a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has ever faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their journey.