Per Averti
Adriano Celentano
The Price of Self-Respect: A Deep Dive into 'Per Averti' by Adriano Celentano
Adriano Celentano's song 'Per Averti' delves into the emotional turmoil of a man who is willing to go to great lengths for love, but not at the expense of his self-respect. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of sunflowers hanging their heads in despair, mirroring the protagonist's own feelings of despondency. This imagery sets the tone for a narrative that explores the boundaries of love and self-worth.
The protagonist expresses a willingness to do anything to be with his beloved, except lose his self-esteem. This internal conflict is poignantly captured in lines like 'Farei Di Tutto, Tranne Perdere La Stima Di Me Stesso' (I would do anything, except lose my self-respect). The song highlights the painful decision to let go of a love that demands too much, emphasizing that true love should not require one to compromise their integrity. The repeated refrain 'Per Averti' (To have you) underscores the depth of his longing, yet he ultimately chooses to stand firm, even though it feels like something inside him is dying.
Celentano's lyrics also touch on the theme of unrequited love and the agony of being in a relationship where one is not fully valued. The line 'Tu Due Cuori Non Li Hai' (You don't have two hearts) suggests that the beloved cannot fully commit, leaving the protagonist with only half of what he needs. This realization leads him to make the painful choice to walk away, despite the bleak future he envisions for himself. The metaphor of being bitten by a snake without an antidote captures the excruciating pain of this decision, yet he remains resolute in maintaining his dignity.
'Per Averti' is a powerful exploration of the sacrifices one is willing to make for love and the ultimate realization that self-respect should never be one of them. Celentano's emotive delivery and the poignant lyrics make this song a timeless reflection on the complexities of love and self-worth.