The meaning of the lyrics of the song "No friend, but will I be able to" (Net druga, no smogu li) the performer of the song "Vladimir Vysotsky"

No friend, but can I ever

Not think of him at all? —

From bullets he did cover,

And much more, saved from fall.

For if it's ever trying,

With spirit or with mind,

In moments he'll be flying,

Right there, for me to find.

And where he is, wherever, —

As then, in smoke and fire,

I know success he favors,

And I the same desire.

1971

Нет друга, но смогу ли

Не вспоминать его —

Он спас меня от пули

И много от чего.

Ведь если станет плохо

С душой иль с головой,

То он в мгновенье ока

Окажется со мной.

И где бы он ни был, куда б ни уехал, —

Как прежде, в бою, и в огне, и в дыму

Я знаю, что он мне желает успеха,

Я тоже успеха желаю ему.

1971

Vladimir Vysotsky's poem "No Longer a Friend, But Can I Ever" speaks about the lyrical hero's profound gratitude and loyalty towards a friend, despite them no longer being together.

The very first lines carry a note of sadness and separation: "No longer a friend, but can I ever forget him?". The hero cherishes the memory of his friend, who saved his life ("He saved me from a bullet and much more besides"). This not only speaks volumes about the friend's selflessness, but also hints at the fact that their bond was forged in hardship, perhaps even danger.

Furthermore, friendship is presented as an invisible yet unbreakable bond. Even when separated by distance, the friend is always ready to offer support: "For if things go wrong, with my soul or with my mind, he'll be by my side in a blink of an eye." The phrase "with my soul or with my mind" highlights the hero's belief in his friend's unwavering support through any of life's turmoil, be it emotional distress or physical danger.

The final lines of the poem emphasize the hero's faith in the unyielding nature of their bond, despite time and distance: "And wherever he is, wherever he may roam… I know that he wishes me well, and I wish him well too." The imagery of "battle, fire and smoke" harks back to the hardships they likely endured together, emphasizing the strength of their friendship, tested in the face of true adversity.

Overall, "No Longer a Friend, But Can I Ever" is an ode to genuine male friendship, built on mutual support, loyalty, and deep understanding. Vysotsky demonstrates that true friendship transcends time and distance; it continues to reside in the hearts of people, even if their paths in life diverge.