Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “Arrabi al Arabe” by Mariem Hassan
Mariem Hassan’s ‘Arrabi al Arabe’ speaks to the struggles of displaced people due to violence in the Middle East. With a resounding tune, the song’s lyrics tell the story of those who have been displaced by life-threatening situations, either in their homeland or as refugees in new countries.
The song speaks to the experiences of those in exile as well the desperation of the refugees to return to their homeland. This is expressed in the first verse of the song, “arrabi al arabe ya yemma, ya allah, yama, ya allah”, which translates to “return the Arab to his homeland, oh mother, oh god, oh god.” This depicts the anguish of missing home and needing a safe haven.
The chorus provides more insight into the feelings of those who are displaced in foreign lands. “when there’s disarray in my country, who will return me to my throat?” reflects an intense feeling of helplessness and anguish. This is similar to the idea of longing for home and craving a return to something familiar and safe.
The song also references the violence and suffering of those left behind in the fight for their homeland’s freedom. “They are leaving no room for us, oh mother, oh god. My wounds are deep, and my pain is extreme” suggests a grief of sacrifice and saddened that no matter how hard they try, they are still unable to gain control of their homeland.
This powerful song speaks to the hardships of displacement and loss. Through its emotive lyrics, it conveys a message of hope in the midst of despair. It reminds us that despite facing the trials and tribulations of displacement, one can hold onto hope for a better future.