Il Monolocale
Lucio Battisti
The Quest for a Home: Lucio Battisti's 'Il Monolocale'
Lucio Battisti's song 'Il Monolocale' delves into the struggles and emotional turmoil of a man desperately seeking a small apartment to share with his beloved. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his daily routine, where he scours the newspaper not just for entertainment but primarily to find a modest place to live. This quest is driven by his desire to provide a private and intimate space for his relationship, symbolized by the longing to share a real bed with his partner. The repeated mention of 'vendesi' (for sale) and the absence of 'affittasi' (for rent) highlights the financial and societal barriers he faces, making his dream seem almost unattainable.
The song also touches on the protagonist's strained relationship with his uncle, who refuses to lend his apartment any longer. This refusal is rooted in the uncle's embarrassment and fear of judgment from the building's concierge, adding a layer of familial conflict and societal pressure. The protagonist's frustration is palpable as he curses his 'maledettissimo zio' (damned uncle), feeling betrayed and unsupported. This familial tension underscores the broader theme of societal expectations and the difficulties of finding personal space within them.
Despite the challenges, the protagonist's love and determination shine through. He feels humiliated by having to use his partner's home and displacing her mother just to share moments of intimacy. His dream is simple yet profound: a small, cozy apartment where they can enjoy everyday moments together, like having coffee after making love. This dream, though modest, represents a significant emotional and personal milestone for him, emphasizing the importance of love, privacy, and shared experiences in a relationship.