Sumiglia

A Filetta's song 'Sumiglia' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of themes such as death, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics, sung in both Corsican and French, paint a vivid picture of a world steeped in sorrow and loss. The opening lines describe an atmosphere heavy with the 'anguish of death,' where faces are 'made of marble' and silence is an 'abyss.' This imagery sets a somber tone, suggesting a world where life has been overshadowed by death and despair.

The song continues to delve into the idea of an 'infinite procession' moving towards eternity, with the burial of a loved one casting a shadow over everything. The 'tremendous pain' and 'roughness' of life are palpable, making existence feel like a 'dead season.' This metaphorical language emphasizes the emotional weight carried by those left behind, struggling to find meaning in a world that seems to have closed its doors on life and light.

In the final stanza, the lyrics shift to a more reflective tone, contemplating the future when memories begin to fade. The 'old earth' will carry the 'dream' that was once the horizon of the departed, and their 'living face' will be imprinted on it. This suggests a form of immortality through memory and the enduring impact of the deceased on the world. The song beautifully captures the duality of loss and remembrance, illustrating how the essence of a person can continue to resonate long after they are gone.