A priceless book of Yiddish songs from the Holocaust, long forgotten in a Sydney cupboard, has been rescued and translated, shedding light on the resilience and creativity of Jewish survivors. This article delves into the story of 'Mima’amakim', a collection of 20 songs written by Holocaust survivors, and its impact on understanding the Holocaust and its aftermath.
The book, printed on fragile acid paper, was found in a Sydney cupboard and is one of only five known surviving copies from an original print run of 500. It was created by Yehuda Eismann, a Holocaust survivor who transcribed 1,000 wartime survival stories, including his own. Eismann categorized the songs into three emotional arcs: Yiesh (Despair), Bitokhn (Hope/Safety), and Kamf un Nitsokhn (Battle and Victory).
The translation of Mima’amakim reveals the raw trauma and gallows humor of the Holocaust survivors. The songs were used by prisoners to build emotional resilience, and the collection carries direct relevance for contemporary immigrants and refugees dealing with displacement. The researchers behind the translation have shared the findings with the Refugee Advice and Casework Service, who find it helpful in working with clients fleeing conflict zones.
The article explores the personal histories behind each song, including the story of Ayzik Flaysher, a 13-year-old who composed 'Der Dritter Pogrom' after witnessing the murder of his parents and siblings. It also highlights the contribution of Alexander Tamir, an 11-year-old boy who anonymously submitted his composition 'Ponar' to a ghetto music competition, which later became a widely performed hymn of Holocaust remembrance in Israel.
The rediscovery of Mima’amakim raises questions about why Olga, the book's owner, kept it a secret for decades. The article speculates on various reasons, including the possibility of a love affair with Eismann. The researchers emphasize the importance of preserving and understanding the creative expressions of Holocaust survivors, as they provide a unique perspective on the Holocaust and its impact on human resilience.
