☝️ Key Points
- The song lyrics describe the events surrounding the death of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko.
- The impact of Biko's death on people is depicted, showing how normal life is suddenly overshadowed by violence and bloodshed.
- The chorus and the phrase 'Yihla Moja' show respect and admiration for Biko, and symbolize his death and the silence that followed.
- It is emphasized that Biko's ideas and influence are immortal, and that he continues to inspire people even after his death.
- The lyrics mention that Biko's death drew international attention to South African apartheid and the oppression of the black population.
Interpretation
The song lyrics "Biko" by
Peter Gabriel are about Steve Biko, a South African anti-apartheid activist who was killed by the police in 1977. The lyrics describe the events surrounding Biko's death and the impact it has on people.
In the first section of the lyrics, normal life in Port Elizabeth is described, when suddenly everything changes. The weather is beautiful, but something terrible happens in police room 619. This is where Biko is held and ultimately killed.
In the second section, the lyrics mention that the singer can only dream in red at night. This symbolizes the violence and bloodshed that accompanied Biko's death. The outside world is described as black and white, with only one color - the red of blood - symbolizing death.
The chorus "Oh Biko, Biko, because Biko" shows the respect and admiration for Biko and emphasizes his importance. The phrase "Yihla Moja, Yihla Moja" comes from the South African Xhosa language and means "go quietly". It symbolizes Biko's death and the silence that follows his death.
In the third verse, the lyrics emphasize the immortality of Biko and his message. You can blow out a candle, but you can't extinguish a fire. Once the flames are ignited, the wind will only fan them further. This symbolizes the ideas and influence that Biko had and continues to have, even after his death.
The last section of the lyrics mentions that the eyes of the world are now watching. This indicates that Biko's death drew international attention to South African apartheid and the oppression of the black population.
Overall, the song lyrics "Biko" by Peter Gabriel express respect and admiration for Steve Biko, a brave activist who fought for the liberation of the black population and died for his beliefs. It is a tribute to him and the ongoing significance of his struggle for justice and freedom.