Borders & Promises: A Song of Palestinian Yearning

Written and performed by Haya Zaatry, a Palestinian Israeli singer-songwriter, architect, and social/political activist, this indie song expresses the endless hope and yearning for freedom in this land. An English translation of the poetic Arabic lyrics are provided below.

Borders & Promises

So far no matter how close
So far no matter how close
The same sea and shore
The same air and wind
Not exactly the same cage
But the same wounded bird

Borders and promises,
And the hope is near
Yet far away

I repeat, words that aren’t certain
I repeat, words that aren’t certain:
I will see you one day
You will fall in love with me again
You will be able to come here
And we’ll walk hand in hand

Borders and promises,
And the hope is near
Yet far away