Chant x Sulu Tavoi

Chant - Fiji
Sulu Tavoi - Simi Rova
(Do not own any rights of the music)
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Meaning (Chant)
They speak of the significance of communication and the power of words. Fiji reflects on the need to listen and understand the language of his culture, emphasizing the importance of learning and gaining knowledge. The repetition of certain phrases signifies a desire for clarity and enlightenment.
(Sulu Tavoi)
The lyrics to Simi Rova's "Sulu Tavoi" are a soulful tribute to a loved one who has passed away. Sulu Tavoi, meaning "white dress," refers to the traditional Fijian funeral dress worn to honor the deceased. The opening lyrics describe the grieving process, with
"Sulu tavoie cagina yawa" roughly translating to "the white dress of mourning is heavy." The singer then goes on to describe the beauty of the night sky and the moon, which stand in stark contrast to the sadness of the scene.
The second verse speaks to the importance of food and community in Fijian mourning traditions. The softness and warmth of the "valo malumu vakauto ni madra" (soft soul of cooked food and the communal sharing of it help to ease the pain of loss.
However, the singer acknowledges that no matter how much comfort is found in these traditions, the grief will not disappear.