Freak
Samuele Bersani
A Nostalgic Journey Through Counterculture and Freedom
Samuele Bersani's song "Freak" is a nostalgic and reflective piece that delves into themes of freedom, counterculture, and the longing for a simpler, more liberated time. The lyrics open with a casual farewell to a lover's earrings, symbolizing peace, which he bought at a flea market. This sets the tone for a journey back to the carefree days of youth, where material possessions were less important than the experiences and memories they represented. The mention of dancing without even a thank you highlights a sense of spontaneity and living in the moment, a hallmark of the 'freak' lifestyle.
The song then shifts to a conversation about dreams and aspirations, specifically a whimsical project of exporting Romagna's traditional flatbread, piadina, to India. This idea, though seemingly trivial, underscores a desire to blend cultures and share simple joys across borders. The recurring mention of the Doors and Bolero music further emphasizes a yearning for artistic and sexual liberation. The Bolero, with its gradual build-up, serves as a metaphor for unrestrained movement and thought, advocating for more freedom and less inhibition.
Bersani also touches on the frustrations of modern life, contrasting it with the idealized freedom of the 1970s. He imagines leaving everything behind to follow a Tibetan singing bowl course, living with his dog and hammock under the stars. This dream is juxtaposed with the reality of feeling trapped in societal confines, whether political or social. The song's raw language and candid expressions reflect a desire to break free from these constraints, advocating for a life unbound by locks and chains. Ultimately, "Freak" is a celebration of individuality, freedom, and the enduring spirit of counterculture, urging listeners to find their own space for liberation in a world that often feels restrictive.