"Bayati"
Bayati is one of the most widely spread genres of oral folk poetry. It has been an inexhaustible treasure of folk literature, with each example expressing thoughts and feelings through its artistic-aesthetic and philosophical richness, which is distinguished for its variety of content. Bayatis reflect the spiritual heritage of our people and provide profound insights into its history, traditions, and emotions.
Bayatis are primarily songs used by the people, most often expressing different aspects of life and emotions. They convey a person’s inner world, joy, sorrow, as well as their connection to nature. Each bayati has a certain repetitive melodic and rhythmic structure, which gives it a unique dynamic and repeated beauty. Bayatis can cover different themes depending on life circumstances and social conditions. For example, love, separation, patriotism, and love for nature are widely addressed in bayatis. These musical pieces not only provide aesthetic pleasure to listeners but also offer a spiritual experience.
Bayatis are also a part of the social environment, as they are performed at traditional gatherings, weddings, and other folk celebrations. As a result, bayatis are a valuable part of Azerbaijani culture, which must be passed on to future generations.
My dear, the homeland is best,
Linen to wear, a fine request,
A foreign land, to roam and see,
But to die for homeland — that’s the key.
