The song is about the experiences of Palestinians since the Nakba of 1948. It captures the profound suffering, displacement, and ongoing struggle that multiple generations of Palestinians have endured. Al-Nakba, or "catastrophe," refers to the mass expulsion and exodus of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their homes in 1948. The song depicts the hardships faced by Palestinians who became refugees, forced to flee their homes and live in camps with limited resources and opportunities. It also reflects the continued occupation, oppression, and human rights abuses that Palestinians experience. The song gives voice to the resilience, resistance, and aspirations of the Palestinian people to achieve self-determination, justice, and a lasting peace. It serves as a powerful artistic expression of the human condition.
The purchase price includes all parts and the score. The song is also available in several other arrangements with different instrumentation.
The Present Absentee (الحاضر الغائب)
Music and Lyrics: Issa Boulos
Genre/Style: Choir
Difficulty: 3-4
Instrumentation: SATB, and Piano. Qanun is included but optional.
Publisher: Aria Music Publications
Region: Middle East
Country: Palestine