Title: International Solidarity: The Mavrix song “The Ghost Who Weeps” in response to Israel’s attacks on Gaza
Introduction :
The current situation in Israel and Gaza is causing many reactions around the world.
A group of South African musicians, The Mavrix, recently released a song called “The Ghost Who Weeps” in response to this conflict. Despite the controversies surrounding the slogan “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free”, the song aims to remind South Africans to express their compassion towards Palestine. Inspired by the poems of two friends living in Gaza and Hebron, the song’s lyrics reflect the artists’ personal experience and their commitment to international solidarity.
The personal context of the group members:
The genesis of this song dates back to the beginning of the conflict, when one of the musicians’ Palestinian friends was affected by Israeli attacks in his village, tragically losing several members of his family. This event deeply affected the band’s guitarist, Jeremy Karodia, who decided to come out of retirement to co-write this song.
Another friend from Gaza also contributed to the song’s composition after he was forced to flee his bombed apartment, taking only a few important documents and leaving behind all his material possessions. These tragic stories pushed artists to express solidarity and support for Palestine through their music.
The poignant lyrics of the song:
The lyrics of “The Ghost Who Weeps” are a mixture of poems written by their Palestinian friends. They depict the resilience of the Palestinian people, highlighting the pain and suffering endured by the mothers, fathers and children of Palestine. The simple yet powerful words of these poems reflect the brutal reality of the current situation in Israel and Gaza.
The fight for freedom:
The release of “The Ghost Who Weeps” on November 29, International Palestine Solidarity Day, demonstrates the deep connection between South Africa and Palestine. Guitarist Jeremy Karodia recalls the words of Nelson Mandela, asserting that “our struggle can never be considered free until the Palestinians are free.” This song is therefore a form of recognition and support for the solidarity shown by Palestine towards South Africa during the oppression of apartheid.
Conclusion :
Mavrix’s “The Ghost Who Weeps” is more than just a song. It is a declaration of international solidarity with the Palestinian people, reminding the world of the importance of compassion and empathy in the face of injustices suffered. Despite the controversies surrounding the slogan used in the lyrics, the artists are undeterred and continue to defend their message of peace and justice. Music can be a way to raise awareness and make the voices of those suffering around the world heard.