«If a Song is sung everywhere...»

Abstract

The article is based on the materials of more than two hundred songs, ranging from the 1920s to the end of the “period of stagnation” (late 1980s). The song's model is examined here in terms of several parameters: epithets used to characterize it, the themes to which it is devoted, its actions, the song’s interactions with the performers, etc. The Soviet song appears as a rather curious textual phenomenon. It acquires “special” features, bringing it beyond the traditional understanding of this musical form.  Regarding people who are singing it, the song fulfills the function of a kind of psychological remedy, lifting their spirits and helping them overcome all obstacles. The Soviet songs invite new performers so that the whole world and even the entire universe seem to be drawn into the act of singing. At the same time, it is hazardous and even ruinous for its enemies, remaining vital and invulnerable. This metaphorical image of the song is typical for Soviet ideological texts and, along with certain other images, contributes to the Soviet artistic consciousness model.   Keywords: song, pioneers, friends, communism, Soviet, happiness, sing, sound, fly, bird, obstacle, world triumph