In Front of Their Houses, Mersin (Folk Song)

In Front of Their Houses, Mersin is a folk song recorded in the repertoire associated with the Isparta region. The song, with its themes of love and longing, regional speech patterns, and melodic structure based on the nihavent makam, is included among the works of Turkish folk music. The source of the song is Kadir Acar, while the collector and transcriber is Muzaffer Sarısözen.

^{Notational Information} (Repertükül)

The song is classified within the nihavent makam series. The final and tonic note is identified as sol. The rhythmic pattern is 9/4 + 7/4. Repertoire sources indicate that the lowest and highest pitches are both sol, and the vocal range spans eight notes.

The lyrics emphasize themes of love, devotion, and yearning. Expressions such as “May God grant you to me” and “Let me be a servant at your door” reflect deep attachment to the beloved. The song also incorporates elements of daily life and nature.

^{Notational Information} (Repertükül)

In front of their houses, mersin
(Ah) do not drink the water, my dear, turn back, turn back
May God grant you to me

Take the dagger, my dear, strike me so I may die
Ah, let me be a servant at your door

In front of their houses, sesame
(Ah) if I find water, my dear, I would wash my clothes
I would open your face, look at you, and stay

Take the dagger, my dear, strike me so I may die
Ah, let me be a servant at your door

The song contains several words with regional usage. “Mersin” refers to a short, stout tree species with abundant leaves. The word “tersin” means “turn back,” and “yumak” is used in the sense of “to wash.” Additionally, the lyrics include regional expressions such as “gadınım” and “bi danem.”