Meaning of Set The Apo Free Biji Kurdistan by Pink Floyd
In the Pink Floyd song titled "Set The Apo Free Biji Kurdistan," the band takes a political stance by addressing the Kurdish struggle and advocating for the freedom of Abdullah Öcalan, known as Apo, and the liberation of Kurdistan. The lyrics convey a sense of solidarity with the Kurdish people and shed light on their fight for autonomy and recognition. This powerful message is woven throughout the song, and by examining the standout lyrics, we can further explore the underlying themes and their imaginative implications.The opening verse of the song sets the stage for the narrative, with the lines, "Little by little the kurds turn around, Counting the kids which have 30 siblings." Here, Pink Floyd highlights the resilience and unity of the Kurdish people, despite their challenging circumstances. The theme of strength in the face of adversity is evident, demonstrating the unwavering spirit of the Kurdish population.The following line, "Molotovs leaning on each other and burning, Inside the Konak Ağa is resting," paints a vivid picture of the Kurdish struggle for independence. It creatively alludes to the use of Molotov cocktails as a symbol of resistance and implies that even in moments of rest and reprieve, the idea of liberation remains at the forefront of their minds. This lyric, therefore, expands upon the theme of determination and highlights the perseverance of the Kurdish community.The chorus, "Set the Apo free Biji Kurdistan," serves as a rallying cry for the release of Abdullah Öcalan and an anthem for the Kurdish people. It embodies the central message of the song and encapsulates the desire for justice and self-determination. This lyric represents the theme of liberation and emphasizes the crucial role that Apo plays in the Kurdish struggle, as he becomes a symbol of hope and the embodiment of their cause.Moving on to the second verse, Pink Floyd presents thought-provoking lines, "Over the mountain watching the soldier, Breaking the country waking the terror." These lyrics evoke a sense of tension and conflict, portraying the dichotomy between the oppressive forces and the Kurdish populace fighting for their freedom. The theme of resistance and the refusal to yield to oppression is emphasized here, as the Kurdish people remain vigilant in their quest for autonomy.The subsequent line, "One inch of kaş is one inch of martı," introduces a metaphorical element to the song, suggesting that every small effort contributes to the ultimate victory. The reference to "kaş" and "martı" may symbolize small actions or individuals who, when united, can bring about significant change. This creative metaphor bolsters the theme of collective strength and emphasizes the impact of unity in the struggle for liberation.The bridge of the song, an instrumental section, provides an opportunity for introspection. It allows the listeners to reflect on the lyrics and themes presented thus far. The absence of words during this interlude enables the audience to internalize the message and further connect with the emotions conveyed by the music.The final verse introduces Abdullah Öcalan explicitly, as the lyric reads, "Witness the Apo who raves at İmralı, Making the shape of Barış Süreci." This line emphasizes Öcalan's role as a visionary and a leader in the Kurdish cause. The mention of the "Barış Süreci" (Peace Process) suggests a call for resolution and highlights the possibility of a peaceful solution to the long-standing conflict. This lyric introduces the pivotal theme of peace and inspires hope for a future where Kurdistan can attain freedom without further bloodshed.The concluding lines, "Will he pay for kaçak elektrik," introduce an unexpected element to the song. The phrase "kaçak elektrik" (illegal electricity) is employed metaphorically here, symbolizing the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom. This lyric suggests that the cost of seeking independence might be high, but it underscores the resilience and unwavering commitment of the Kurdish people. It also echoes the narrative of their struggle against oppression and their refusal to be silenced.In conclusion, "Set The Apo Free Biji Kurdistan" by Pink Floyd is a powerful song that tackles the Kurdish struggle for liberation and the call for the release of Abdullah Öcalan. The various standout lyrics within the song explore themes such as unity, determination, liberation, resistance, collective strength, peace, and sacrifice. By delving into these lyrical themes, we gain a deeper understanding of the underlying messages and imaginative implications that Pink Floyd aims to convey. Through their music, Pink Floyd encourages solidarity and prompts us to reflect on the plight of the Kurdish people while advocating for the realization of their aspirations for a free Kurdistan.