Generale

Francesco De Gregori's song 'Generale' is a poignant reflection on the aftermath of war, capturing the emotional and physical scars left behind. The song opens with a vivid image of a general observing a desolate landscape, where the night is described as 'crucca e assassina' (cruel and murderous). This sets a somber tone, highlighting the brutality and senselessness of war. The mention of a peasant woman, bent over at sunset, symbolizes the enduring hardship and resilience of those left behind. Her life, marked by the birth of five children who went off to war and never returned, underscores the personal toll of conflict on families and communities.

As the song progresses, De Gregori shifts focus to a train that once brought soldiers to the front lines. Now, it no longer stops, symbolizing the relentless march of time and the irreversible changes brought by war. The lyrics suggest a longing for normalcy and the simple joys of life, such as singing and making love, which have been overshadowed by the horrors of battle. The war's end is depicted with a sense of emptiness and loss, as the enemy has fled, leaving behind a silent, barren landscape. The imagery of pine needles, silence, and mushrooms evokes a return to nature and a search for sustenance and meaning in a post-war world.

In the final verses, the general reflects on the insignificance of his medals ('cinque stelle') and the tears they represent. The train, now a metaphor for the journey back to normal life, is described as 'mezzo vuoto e mezzo pieno' (half empty and half full), indicating a sense of ambivalence and uncertainty about the future. As the train speeds towards home, the approaching dawn symbolizes hope and renewal, yet the lingering effects of war remain palpable. De Gregori masterfully captures the complex emotions of soldiers returning from war, blending themes of loss, hope, and the search for meaning in a world forever changed by conflict.