Skazki
Zemfira
Loneliness and Yearning in Zemfira's 'Skazki'
Zemfira's song 'Skazki' delves into themes of loneliness, yearning, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a solitary figure retreating to a rooftop, seeking solace in the quiet of the night. The imagery of extinguishing streetlights and the cold, swaying antennas sets a melancholic tone, emphasizing the character's isolation. The rooftop becomes a sanctuary where the protagonist can escape the mundanity and emotional void of their surroundings, listening to the rhythmic breathing of neighbors and the distant hum of the last trolleybus heading to the depot.
The repeated lines 'im zhe ne bol'no, zvezd ne kasalis'' (they don't hurt, they haven't touched the stars) suggest a sense of disconnection and unfulfilled dreams. The protagonist contrasts their own pain and longing with the seemingly indifferent lives of those around them. This line underscores a feeling of being different, of having aspirations and emotions that others do not share or understand. The mention of 'skazki moi lyubimye' (my favorite tales) not being read at night further highlights a sense of loss and nostalgia, perhaps for a time when there was comfort and companionship.
Zemfira's musical style, often characterized by its raw emotionality and introspective lyrics, shines through in 'Skazki'. The song captures the essence of feeling alone in a crowded world, where even the beauty of the stars seems out of reach. The rooftop, a recurring motif, symbolizes a place of refuge and contemplation, away from the prying eyes and indifferent hearts below. 'Skazki' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, exploring the depths of solitude and the longing for connection and understanding.