Song meaning of Время колокольчиков (Time of Little Bells) by Александр Башлачёв (Alexander Bashlachev)

The song "Время колокольчиков" by Alexander Bashlachev speaks about the changing times and the struggle to maintain one's identity and freedom. The lyrics describe a group of people who have endured hardships, both in extreme heat and freezing cold, but have managed to remain free. They have consumed snow with birch porridge and grown alongside the bell towers.

The song reflects on the resilience of these people, as they do not regret shedding tears or celebrating joy. They have become accustomed to the harshness of life, ripping the nerves of a brass speaker. However, with each passing day, times change. The domes lose their gold, bell ringers wander the world, and the bells themselves are broken and fragmented.

Despite the difficulties they face, the people continue to persevere, walking in circles and living as underground fighters on their own fields. The absence of a bell signifies the era of the little bells, where their presence is not heard or acknowledged.

In the second verse, the song urges the heart to beat quickly, awakening the crows in a hurry. The people are encouraged to gather their belongings and head in different directions, even though the horses have not been saddled for years and the wheels remain unmended. The absence of tools and equipment does not deter them, as they continue to navigate their paths under the rainbow of rain.

The chorus introduces the idea of the Russian little bells, symbolizing the threat and power they possess. The song calls out to the brotherhood, challenging them to perceive danger through their laughter.

In the final verse, the lyrics speaks of living a life filled with curses and prayers, sleeping and drinking excessively, but no longer singing. The people have transformed due to the circumstances and found similarities among themselves. However, they have also discovered their differences when faced with rain. Despite the broken father Tsar-bell, they arrive with their black guitars. The influence of rock and roll has enchanted them with its first beats, infusing sparks of electricity within them. They embrace this new sound, proudly claiming their love for the little bells' era.

The song portrays a sense of resilience, unity, and the power of music in the face of changing times. It speaks to the ability to adapt and find one's identity amidst adversity, ultimately finding solace and strength in the era of the little bells.