La Tramontana

Gianni Pettenati's song "La Tramontana" is a playful yet poignant exploration of the disorienting effects of love and attraction. The term 'tramontana' in Italian refers to a cold north wind, but metaphorically, it signifies losing one's bearings or direction. Pettenati uses this metaphor to describe how love and infatuation can lead to a loss of control and clarity.

The lyrics begin with an invitation to invent stories for amusement, but the singer insists that what he is about to share is the truth. He describes a world turned upside down, where the sun and day no longer function as they should, symbolizing his internal chaos. This upheaval is attributed to his infatuation with a woman, who is depicted in various whimsical and surreal scenarios, such as riding a tank or acting like a Native American. These images highlight the absurd lengths to which his mind goes when he is enamored.

The song also references the biblical story of Eve and the apple, suggesting that just as Eve's actions led to significant consequences, his own actions and feelings have led him to lose his 'tramontana.' The recurring theme is that the singer is constantly losing his sense of direction due to his attraction to women. He humorously admits that he is drawn to all types of women, and this perpetual state of infatuation keeps him in a state of disarray.

Ultimately, "La Tramontana" is a light-hearted yet insightful commentary on the universal experience of being swept off one's feet by love. It captures the confusion, the irrationality, and the endless cycle of losing and seeking direction in the face of romantic attraction.