Elias Mazian Heimwee (2020)
From the 15th to the 19th centuries, Swiss soldiers were highly sought after by European rulers. Renowned for their discipline, combat skills and loyalty—and often driven by the poor economic conditions in Switzerland at the time—they served in France, Spain, Italy and other countries. Perhaps the most famous example is the Pontifical Swiss Guard, established in 1506, which continues to serve as the Pope's personal bodyguard to this day.
While serving abroad, Swiss mercenaries often found themselves far from their mountainous homeland, in vastly different climates and cultures. Long periods away from home led to profound feelings of isolation and a deep longing for familiar surroundings. This condition was known as “Heimweh,” literally meaning “home pain.” The symptoms, as described in historical accounts, were utterly intense, affecting not only the soldiers’ mental health but also their physical well-being. The condition became so prevalent that by the 17th century, Swiss physicians began treating it as a medical disorder.
Interestingly, back in the days music played a crucial role in homesickness, as the condition is known today. Some mercenaries would sing traditional herdsmen’s songs to keep up their spirits. These melodies, however, were believed to trigger “Heimweh” in fellow soldiers, sometimes even leading to desertion. It is said that for this reason some officers forbade the singing of native songs to prevent this melancholic illness among their troops.
Of course, homesickness is not exclusive to Swiss mercenaries. Today, it is seen as a natural, often temporary reaction to change. It can be linked to attachment theory, which suggests that people form emotional bonds with places and people. When separated from these beloved places or people, especially without the possibility of an immediate return, a sense of loss can follow.
A contemporary who seems to have suffered from homesickness is Amsterdam-based DJ, producer and singer Elias Mazian. How so? Listen to today’s song from his epic 2020 synth-pop album Vrij van Dromen. Not only does the title, “Heimwee”, refer to the condition in question, but the song’s nostalgic vibe also evokes the feeling familiar to anyone who has been away from home for too long.
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