Tra Le Granite e Le Granate

Francesco Gabbani's song "Tra Le Granite e Le Granate" offers a satirical and critical perspective on modern vacations and the pursuit of happiness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how contemporary society seeks temporary escapes from the mundane realities of life, often through commercialized and superficial means. The opening lines, "Oggi il paradiso costa la metà / Lo dice il venditore di felicità," suggest that happiness is being sold at a discount, highlighting the commodification of joy and the illusion of paradise offered by travel packages.

The song juxtaposes images of tourists taking group photos at concentration camps and luxury hotels in pygmy villages, underscoring the absurdity and insensitivity of such behaviors. Gabbani uses these stark contrasts to critique the superficiality of so-called "intelligent vacations," where people seek mental relaxation while their bodies remain in a state of decay. The recurring phrase, "Lasciate ogni speranza voi ch'entrate," borrowed from Dante's Inferno, serves as a grim reminder that these escapes are ultimately futile.

Despite the apparent freedom that vacations promise, Gabbani suggests that people never truly leave their routines. Lines like "Eppure non partiamo mai / Ci allontaniamo solo un po'" emphasize that these trips are mere temporary diversions, and upon returning, life resumes its monotonous course. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of happiness and the inevitable return to normality, encapsulated in the lines, "Dietro le spalle / Un morso di felicità / Davanti il tuo ritorno alla normalità." Through this, Gabbani invites listeners to question the true value of their escapes and the societal pressures that drive them.