Bandiera Bianca

Franco Battiato's 'Bandiera Bianca' is a powerful critique of contemporary society, filled with biting commentary and vivid imagery. The song opens with a reference to Mr. Tamburino, a nod to Bob Dylan's 'Mr. Tambourine Man,' signaling a desire for change and a break from the status quo. Battiato laments the superficiality and materialism of modern life, describing people as 'children of the stars and great-grandchildren of His Majesty Money.' This line underscores the pervasive influence of wealth and consumerism on society's values and priorities.

Battiato's disdain for the media and political landscape is evident as he criticizes 'demented programs with electoral platforms' and mocks the futile attempts to mask one's true nature with 'perfumes and deodorants.' The metaphor of quicksand ('sabbie mobili') pulling people down highlights the inescapable and destructive nature of these societal issues. The recurring image of the white flag ('bandiera bianca') waving on the bridge symbolizes surrender and the need for a new beginning, a call to abandon the current path and seek a more meaningful existence.

The song also touches on the difficulty of maintaining one's integrity and calm in a chaotic world. Battiato contrasts the timeless beauty of classical music with the triviality of modern life, preferring 'salad to Beethoven and Sinatra' and 'raisins to Vivaldi' for their practical benefits. This juxtaposition emphasizes the absurdity of contemporary values and the challenge of staying true to oneself amidst the noise and madness. The repeated refrain of 'minima immoralia' and the closing lines, 'The end, my only friend this is the end,' borrowed from The Doors, reinforce the sense of disillusionment and the urgent need for change.