Salia Says:

For the Mende of old said: ‘A man who’s prevailed in court doesn’t burn down a village.’

Salia Says: “If You Want For Love In Your Life”

If you want for love in your life

You’ll go to bed but dream no good dreams

         -indeed, you’ll not eat good food-

Not unless you dreamt yourself gathering palm nuts.

That is called: Lying in the lap of poverty.

 

I sigh, as I yearn for affection. I sigh.

What did I do?  I yearn for affection. What did I do?

Eh, but for a net! 

 I wish to fish but I came without a net.

 

                -Salia Koroma, Salia Bondesia/Konii Gbakpa (1970s)

Salia Says: Give me…

– Give me, O give me;

When (*in the future*) your baby will take its first step, I know not.

There’s no fool in Mendeland;

When (in the future) your baby will take its first step, I know not.

 

 

Nya goh o nya goh o

Nya ngi bi lui jia gbe goh *sina. *

Kpowamoh ii Mende

Nya ngi bi lui jia gbe goh sina.