Elegia
Adiemus - Karl Jenkins Lyrics

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Introduction

ma we ya ma__
ma we ya ma
Ah____
ma we ya ma__
ma we ya ma
Ah______

ma ma we a ma ya

Refrain: Noh mah neh nah noh
noh mah nah neh noh
noh mah neh nah noh
noh mah nah neh noh
Oh______

Az ma le va__
az ma le va
ah____
az ma le va__
az ma le va
ah____
ma ma we a ma ya

refrain (2x,and the 2nd time without "Oh" at the end fading out)

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Karl Jenkins's song "Elegia" do not have a clear meaning as they are composed in his invented language named "Adiemus." However, this does not veer away from the emotional impact that this song has on its listeners. The song starts with a repeating melody of "ma we ya ma" and "ah," followed by "ma ma we a ma ya." This chant-like repetition sets a reverent tone throughout the piece, which is perfectly fitting for the meaning of the word "Elegia," which means a mournful poem or lament for the dead.

The refrains of the song, "noh mah neh nah noh," are sung in a way that it is both soothing and melancholic. The tone suggests that the singer is expressing a sense of loss or sadness, and the repetitions emphasize the depth of the emotions conveyed. The rest of the lyrics consist mostly of "az ma le va" and "ah," followed by "ma ma we a ma ya" at the end, further adding to the song's chant-like atmosphere.

Overall, "Elegia" may appear to be written in an unknown language, but it still manages to capture and convey a strong sense of loss and mournfulness that resonates with the listeners.

Line by Line Meaning

ma we ya ma__
Chanting the melody with unified voices

ma we ya ma
Resounding the rhythm with a steady beat

Ah____
A moment of silence to pause and reflect

ma we ya ma__
Intensifying the melody with greater depth

ma we ya ma
Strengthening the rhythm with more energy

Ah______
A moment of introspection for personal growth

ma ma we a ma ya
Sustaining the harmony with unity and peace

Refrain: Noh mah neh nah noh
Expressing spirituality through sacred sounds

noh mah nah neh noh
Repeating the sacred words in devotion

noh mah neh nah noh
Meditating on the divine essence

noh mah nah neh noh
Awakening the soul with divine love