Venere

Carmen Consoli's song "Venere" delves into the emotional landscape of a woman grappling with disillusionment and self-awareness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is fortunate enough to still possess the good sense to question herself and reject superficial self-help manuals. This self-awareness is juxtaposed with the end of a painful relationship, symbolized by the dying flowers and the remnants of a romantic dinner. The imagery of the flowers and the dinner serves as a metaphor for the decay of love and the end of an emotional chapter.

The recurring lines "triste annoiata e asciutta" (sad, bored, and dry) and "sarei la tua venere storpia" (I would be your crippled Venus) highlight the protagonist's feelings of inadequacy and disillusionment. She perceives herself as a distorted version of Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, suggesting a loss of self-worth and romantic idealism. The use of the word "storpiata" (crippled) emphasizes the emotional and psychological damage inflicted by the relationship, making her feel like an unworthy and useless prey.

The chorus, with its promise of a "squallido grazie" (squalid thank you) and a "sorriso di circostanza" (circumstantial smile), underscores the emptiness and insincerity of the relationship's end. The protagonist's decision to reject practical sex and success further illustrates her desire to reclaim her sense of self and authenticity. The lingering "fumo delle tue parole" (smoke of your words) symbolizes the lasting impact of the partner's empty promises and deceit. Ultimately, "Venere" is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, the rejection of superficiality, and the painful yet liberating process of moving on from a toxic relationship.