Bozatli Hizir

“Bozatli Hizir” by Zülfü Livaneli is a song deeply rooted in Turkish folklore and mysticism. The lyrics evoke a sense of spiritual journey and a call for divine intervention. The song opens with the narrator setting out at dawn, a time often associated with new beginnings and spiritual awakening. The mention of 'Kozan' and 'Hizan' could be references to specific places, but they also carry a metaphorical weight, symbolizing the journey from darkness to light, ignorance to enlightenment. The plea to 'Sultan Hizir' and 'merdan Ali' suggests a call for guidance and support from revered spiritual figures in Turkish and Islamic culture.

The imagery of horses struggling in the snow and the mention of 'Kamber' not moving further adds to the sense of a difficult journey. Horses, often seen as noble and powerful animals, here symbolize the challenges and obstacles one faces in life. The narrator's call to their 'pir' (spiritual guide) who does not come, emphasizes the feeling of abandonment and the need for divine intervention. The repeated refrain, 'Yürü Sultan Hizir car günün geldi, Yetis merdan Ali car sende kaldi,' reinforces the urgency and desperation of the plea for help.

The final verse brings in the imagery of mountains, which are often seen as symbols of strength and endurance. The line 'Er odur ki gezer yalavuz' suggests that true strength lies in perseverance and humility. The mention of 'Boz atli Hizir' (Hizir on a gray horse) as a guide underscores the importance of spiritual guidance in overcoming life's challenges. The song, with its rich use of metaphors and cultural references, paints a vivid picture of a spiritual journey, filled with trials and the need for divine support and guidance.