La Storia

Francesco De Gregori's song 'La Storia' is a profound reflection on the collective nature of history and the role of individuals within it. The lyrics emphasize that history is not an abstract concept but a living, breathing entity shaped by the actions and experiences of ordinary people. De Gregori begins by asserting that 'we are the history,' urging listeners to recognize their part in the grand narrative. This inclusive message is reinforced with lines like 'nobody should feel excluded,' highlighting the universal participation in the historical process.

The song also addresses the manipulation and misinformation that can distort our understanding of history. De Gregori warns against the cynical view that 'everyone steals in the same way,' a sentiment used to justify inaction and apathy. Instead, he encourages active engagement, suggesting that history 'does not stop at a door' but permeates every aspect of life, influencing and being influenced by our daily actions. This idea is vividly captured in the imagery of history entering rooms and burning them, symbolizing its transformative power.

Moreover, 'La Storia' celebrates the diversity of human experience, acknowledging both the learned and the unlearned as equal contributors to history. De Gregori's reference to 'fathers and sons' and the iconic Italian resistance song 'Bella Ciao' underscores the intergenerational and cultural dimensions of historical continuity. The song concludes with a powerful reminder that history is relentless and unstoppable, a 'plate of grain' that sustains and nourishes us. Through 'La Storia,' De Gregori invites us to see ourselves as active participants in the ongoing story of humanity, with the power to shape and be shaped by the world around us.