Miss Sarajevo

The song 'Miss Sarajevo,' performed by Luciano Pavarotti, is a poignant piece that delves into the juxtaposition of everyday life and the harsh realities of war. The lyrics, penned by Bono of U2, reflect on the different times and activities in a person's life, questioning the appropriateness of mundane actions during periods of conflict. The song was originally part of a collaboration for a documentary of the same name, which highlighted the beauty pageant held during the siege of Sarajevo, a symbol of resistance and normalcy amidst chaos.

The verses enumerate various ordinary activities, such as applying makeup, shopping, and celebrating occasions, contrasting them with the backdrop of war. The rhetorical questions posed by Bono suggest a contemplation of when it is suitable to engage in such trivial pursuits when there is suffering and strife in the world. The chorus, 'Here she comes, heads turn around... Surreal in her crown,' likely refers to the beauty pageant contestants, who, despite the war, strive to maintain a semblance of normal life by participating in an event that celebrates beauty and grace.

Pavarotti's operatic interlude in Italian adds a layer of depth and emotion to the song. The lyrics he sings translate to a message about the inevitability of love, comparing it to a river that inevitably reaches the sea. This powerful metaphor serves as a beacon of hope, suggesting that love and humanity will prevail despite the surrounding turmoil. The song ends with a return to the theme of seasonal festivities, leaving the listener to ponder the dissonance between the warmth of human traditions and the coldness of human conflict.