Ласкают (laskayut) is a tender Russian verb meaning 'to caress' or 'to stroke gently'. It often describes an act of affection, like petting an animal or softly touching a loved one.
In this song, it's used in a striking and poetic oxymoron: "Твоё имя ласкают тысячи льдин" (Your name is caressed by thousands of pieces of ice). This powerful image, which combines the warmth of a caress with the biting cold of ice, perfectly captures the feeling of a love that is both beautiful and painful.
This song drops you right into the middle of a secret, intense love affair. The very first lines set the scene: "Наши тени скрывались под лампой / Чтобы эту любовь не увидел никто" (Our shadows hid under the lamp / So that no one would see this love). The singer is completely devoted to someone who, as she later reveals, is not available: "Я тебя не забыла, но ты не один" (I haven't forgotten you, but you are not alone). There's a feeling of putting on a brave face while hurting inside, like when she sings about her heart crying while her coat hides the tears.
Despite the difficult situation, her message is a powerful and possessive promise. The chorus repeats like a mantra: "Никогда, никогда, никому, никому / Я тебя не отдам" (Never, never, to anyone, to anyone / I will not give you up). She pleads for affection, asking him to take all her warmth with a kiss, showing a deep desperation for connection. It's a declaration of holding on, no matter the cost or the secrecy involved.
Did you know?
In addition to reading lyric translations, you can now learn Russian with music and lyrics from your favorite artists.
Yes, including Я ТЕБЯ НЕ ОТДАМ (YA TEBYA NE OTDAM) by Серебро (Serebro)!
No more boring lessons. You can now learn with engaging and culturally relevant lyrics from the best artists.