Bascarsija in Sarajevo Author Asim Bajramovic

Bascarsija in SarajevoIn
Sarajevo, Baščaršija,
there the old Bezistan stands,
and beside it lies the coppersmiths’ lane,
praised in songs throughout the land.

All the little shops stand closely,
one beside the other there,
but the finest shop is Pašić’s,
Salko’s son, beyond compare.

All the little shops stand closely,
one beside the other there,
but the finest shop is Pašić’s,
Salko’s son, beyond compare

Lovely Zehra passes by him,
golden ducats grace her hair.
Pašić calls: “Will you marry,
will you be my lady fair?”


“I would rather stay unmarried,
all my life, both young and free,
than be sold for golden ducats
and become a bride to thee.”
“I would rather stay unmarried,
all my life, both young and free,
than be sold for golden ducats
and become a bride to thee
____

“I don’t want your wedding ring,
nor your costly bridal gift.
Ibro waits for me in Vratnik,
proud standard-bearer, brave and swift.
-----

On his chestnut horse he carries
high a banner made of silk,
leading regiments and soldiers
in the army of Husrev Bey.”
On his chestnut horse he carries
high a banner made of silk,
leading regiments and soldiers
in the army of Husrev Bey.”