INTRODUCTION AND LINK LIST: THE SASMOS CYCLE
Playlist.
Link list of postings on The Dystopia of Paradise Blog
Nov. 13, 2024 Introduction, Αντρική Καρδιά ("The Manly Heart")
Nov. 25, 2024 Η Μάνα ("The Mother")
Dec. 5, 2024 Κερί Αναμμένο ("The Burning Candle")
Most translations do not make it to this blog. The lyrics must have some bearing on the issues we are dealing with here. Those that do not meet the criteria, are posted on the blog Greek Lyrics to English (link).
On translating
A word on translation. Having run into serious trouble translating Greek songs into English, I vowed not even try anymore and just provide the Greek text with a Latin transcription, which does not lead to any better understanding for a reader not familiar with Greek. So what to do?
Specifically in lyrics and poetry, translation is a hell scape. What would a Western person make of this passage from the song, Έρωτας αρχάγγελος (Love Archangel): "Πήρα από τα μάτια σου λίγο μαύρο χρώμα κι έβαψα τα ρούχα μου μάνα μη με δεις" literally translated as: "I took a bit of black from your eyes and dyed my clothes so you won't see me, mum"?
Yeah, do not even try! But as a mere translator you can't very well run off with the text and give it your own personal interpretation. So there will have to be a trade off. But whatever you do, it never does full justice to the original.
Most of the lyrics in the Sasmos Cycle have no specific bearing on the themes of the blog, "The Dystopia of Paradise" on philosophy, religion and culture (link). We continue the translation project on the site of "Greek Songs Into English" (link). Songs related to the subject matter of this blog, will of course be posted in these pages.
I have now tried my hand at literal translations, translations that consider rhyme and meter, and a more interpretive approach. Before we know what the purpose of a specific translation ultimately is, it is my opinion that a more literal approach with the sparing use of interpretation, on the whole is the best. All songs will be translated with that consideration in mind, unless stated otherwise.
Genesis of the "Sasmos" Cycle
The way in which this cycle of songs were conceived, is interesting. Having been conscripted together in the Hellenic Army, the prolific composer Nikos Terzis called in singer/songwriter Yannis Kotsiras' help with the lyrics for the title music of the television series "Sasmos" (roughly meaning 'conciliation'), that he could not get quite right.
They finished the title music and score, sent it to the producers and thought no more about it. Until the first instalment dropped on TV and they were alerted to the fact that apparently their song had won the contest. The producers had forgotten to inform the song writers of their decision.
That was the start of over thirty of these co-productions. There are a great many variations of the title song on the market in various moods. I have brought some together in a YouTube playlist (top), preferably those variations that come with video material from the series.
As Kotsiras explains in the interview with Art Week, he has the advantage as a singer of knowing what an interpreter needs from the lyrics. A concept, that does not apply to us as mere translators. Where possible I am taking meter into account and have taken liberties with the sequence if that improves cadence, without violating the spirit.
Alpha TV series "Sasmos"
Now on the series itself. It is typically set on the island of Crete, known for its blood feuds, vendettas and other unwritten social laws directing the lives of Cretans. Here's how Alpha TV describes the story line.
"Fate is playing dirty in the village of Ano Poria, with the heroes at a critical point in their lives. Determined to go against this fate and overcome the obstacles, the hope for conciliation weaves itself more and more into their souls.
"The balance, however, is constantly tipped over. New faces come as shadows, eager to ally themselves to prevent reconciliation, while the Erinyes (Furies) for a unpunished crime awaken the worst in the feud with unchecked consequences and losses.
"Love alternates with hate, light with darkness and dreams become nightmares that come to life. Situations transform the personalities of the heroes. And at the moment when their own persons are threatened, they are forced to overcome themselves and make difficult decisions. Some of them irreversible..."
- More on music videos, Greece, Yannis Kotsiras, Sasmos -
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