Arivederchi (translation)

Zemfira's song 'Arivederchi' is a poignant exploration of life's uncertainties and the emotional turmoil that accompanies them. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of disillusionment and the desire for escape. The opening lines, 'The Moscow crows / Woke me up,' set a somber tone, suggesting a sense of foreboding and the harsh realities of life in a bustling city. The mention of 'wet matches' killing hope to smoke symbolizes the extinguishing of small comforts and the struggle to find solace in difficult times.

The recurring imagery of ships in a port serves as a powerful metaphor for the individual's journey and the choices they face. 'Burn the ships in my port' implies a decisive break from the past, a willingness to leave behind what is familiar and venture into the unknown. This act of burning ships is historically associated with committing to a new path without the option of retreat, highlighting the protagonist's determination to move forward despite the challenges. The lines 'If we can't fly / We will float' further emphasize resilience and adaptability, suggesting that even if the ideal path is unattainable, there are still ways to navigate through life's obstacles.

The song also delves into themes of personal growth and the passage of time. The protagonist reflects on becoming 'older by a lifetime' and the importance of remembering past experiences. The repeated instruction to 'set the hands for two hours behind' can be interpreted as a desire to revisit or correct past mistakes, or perhaps to slow down and reassess one's direction. Zemfira's evocative lyrics and melancholic tone capture the essence of a deeply personal journey, resonating with anyone who has faced moments of doubt and the need for reinvention.