Herman
Wynand Strydom Lyrics

The lyrics to Wynand Strydom's song "Herman" follow the story of a sailor who is absent and the longing of those who miss him. The opening lines describe the ships lying in the bay as they return from distant lands such as Java, Malta, Beirut, and Bombay, but Herman is not there to see them. The lyrics continue, expressing a desire to speak with Herman about other far-off places like Leningrad, Khartoum, and Zanzibar, but he has left, leaving only a shattered guitar and a dream behind. The refrain repeats the line "Maar waar jy vanaand is kan ons maar net raai" ("But where you are tonight, we can only guess"), emphasizing the mystery and yearning for his return.

The song captures the essence of melancholy and yearning for lost loved ones, expressing a universal human emotion. The imagery of ships and distant lands connect to traditional themes of travel and adventure, while also emphasizing the emotional toll that such experiences can take on individuals and their families. The lyrics also suggest a sense of longing for connection and communication, as seen through the missed opportunity to share stories and experiences. The overall message of the song resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the loss of someone close to them.