Innocenti Evasioni

Lucio Battisti's 'Innocenti Evasioni' is a masterful exploration of the delicate balance between reality and fantasy, wrapped in the guise of a romantic evening. The song opens with a sense of 'leggera follia' or 'light madness,' suggesting a whimsical, almost dreamlike state that colors the protagonist's soul. This sets the stage for an evening filled with anticipation and imagination, as he prepares for an encounter with 'qualcuno'—someone who is already in the air, someone with an 'ingenuous smile and perfume.' The setting is meticulously crafted with details like a record player, red lights, and chilled champagne, all elements that heighten the sense of an impending adventure.

As the evening progresses, the protagonist's plans are interrupted by the unexpected arrival of his partner. The sudden shift in atmosphere is palpable, as he scrambles to explain the romantic setup. His partner's jealousy is evident, but he tries to soothe her by insisting that the preparations were not for anyone else. The lyrics 'Non sono prove no no no' (These are not rehearsals, no no no) and 'Un po' di fuoco per scaldarmi un po'' (A bit of fire to warm myself up) serve as his attempts to downplay the situation. The protagonist's plea for his partner to sit beside him and abandon her jealousy adds a layer of emotional complexity, revealing his desire to maintain the illusion of innocence.

The song culminates in a moment of vulnerability and intimacy, as the protagonist invites his partner to share the champagne and enjoy the evening. The repeated references to her beauty and the lingering 'brivido in cuore' (shiver in the heart) underscore the emotional tension and the fragile nature of their relationship. Battisti's 'Innocenti Evasioni' is a poignant reflection on the thin line between innocent escapism and the harsh reality of human emotions, capturing the essence of romantic entanglements with poetic finesse.