"Kalina Malina" is a popular Polish folk song that celebrates the beauty of nature and love. The title refers to two prominent plants in Polish folklore: the viburnum (kalina) and the raspberry (malina). These plants are often associated with traditional Polish culture and are symbols of beauty, vitality, and love.
The song typically features lively and upbeat music, with lyrics that praise the vibrancy of the viburnum and the sweetness of the raspberry. It often depicts scenes of love and courtship in the natural surroundings of the Polish countryside. The melody is catchy, making it a favorite for celebrations and gatherings. "Kalina Malina" has become a beloved part of Polish musical heritage, with its cheerful melody and nostalgic lyrics evoking a sense of pride and connection to the country's traditions and natural beauty. It is often performed at weddings, festivals, and other cultural events, serving as a reminder of Poland's rich folk music tradition.
The poem describes the blooming raspberry viburnum in the forest and the love story involving an Uhlan (a type of cavalryman armed with a lance). Many girls loved him, and one wrote tender letters to him. Eventually, the Uhlan asks his lieutenant for leave because his girlfriend gave birth to their son. The lieutenant allows him to go home but orders him to saddle a black horse with golden reins to make his girlfriend happy. When the Uhlan returns, his mother-in-law accuses him of disgracing a girl, but he denies it, stating that she disgraced herself by drinking and playing cards. The poem reflects on how modern youth prioritize children before marriage, contrasting with traditional values.
Kalina Malina (trad)
Arr S Schultz
