Death of the Author
Since October 7, bombarded by cascading waves of misinformation and disinformation, many of the artists who’s work I admire took definitive stances on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. After years of staying silent through intifadas and bombings, they decided the best timing to share their thoughts on the issue – after an abyssmal minimal amount of research – is just after Islamic Fundamentalists committed unspeakable atrocities against Jewish civilians, kidnapping many into Gaza.
For years I’ve been vocal with my support of the Palestinian people, believing in a mutual hope for a better future. I still believe it, mind you, but I’m now convinced a path towards a brighter future will only be made possible if Hamas is rooted out and Gaza is demilitarized, before abolishing Bibi’s fanatical government in hopes for better leadership and governance for both sides.
That said, when it comes to the opinions of artists who’s art I enjoy – I tend to be forgiving when their motivation comes from pacifistic notions, all peace & love, and stems from being ignorant of the evil and stated mission of Hamas. That said, when they parrot genocidical talking points and slogans, stick to their guns and refuse to engage in meaningful conversation or empathy for the Israeli side of the conflict – I can no longer enjoy their art.
Ever since I started consuming art & music, I remember enjoying the added thought of the artist conjuring the art in seclusion, late at night. I’ve always enjoyed originals more than covers for that reason, but time revealed that it’s a double edged sword.
It also goes both ways – many fans of artists who support Israel’s struggle against Hamas can no longer support or listen to the artists in question. I feel that the arrogance of trying to distill this conflict into a Good vs. Evil simplicity, ignoring its intricacies and complexities is malicious and lazy. Parroting propaganda from either side doesn’t do justice with the human beings affected by the conflict.
This week – again – I release 2 translations and an original demo.
1. Every Night (ובלילות) – A song originally written by Ariel Zilber. Ariel became a controversial figure in Israel in past years. He spent the 70s being liberally secular, before delving into religion to rather extreme ideologies. Nevertheless, he’s still revered and considered amongst the most creative and prolific songwriters of Israel, though his views and opinions cast a dreaded shadow over his art. This song, perhaps taking inspiration from the Beatles’ “Martha My Dear”, was written about his dog.
Hebrew Version (Cover) – English Version (Translation) – Side-by-Side Translation Player
2. Simple Twist of Fate (גורל שמתפתל) – Bob Dylan’s “Blood on the Tracks” is my favorite Bob Dylan album and I consider it an absolute masterpiece. Dylan has taken different stances and positions on just about any subject in existence over the years, many to the dismay of his fans. Perhaps trying to avoid besmirching his art and it’s significant volume, or alienating fans, he’s been mostly staying quiet the past couple of decades, letting his music do the talking.
Hebrew Version (Translation) – English Version (Cover) – Side-by-Side Translation Player
3. Accidental Overdose – written months before the 03/23 surgery, in a point of despair and muted acceptance, I tried writing the most upbeat song I could about giving up. Listening to it still comforts me, even though I feel far removed from the person I was when I first wrote it.
Thanks for reading & Listening,
Yair (Screwup)