Come on lena
Håkan Hellström
Dreams and Realities: The Melancholic Dance of 'Come on Lena'
Håkan Hellström's 'Come on Lena' is a poignant exploration of dreams, disillusionment, and the bittersweet nature of fleeting connections. The song opens with a stark rejection of the 'Dolce Vita,' a term that evokes the idealized, glamorous lifestyle often depicted in Italian culture. Hellström immediately sets the tone by acknowledging that such a life is unattainable for him and Lena, urging her to stop apologizing for things she never did. This sentiment reflects a broader theme of accepting one's reality, no matter how harsh it may be.
The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and pain, particularly when Hellström sings about the agony of seeing someone so close yet so far away. This paradoxical feeling is a central theme in the song, highlighting the emotional distance that can exist even in close physical proximity. The recurring 'Du-tu-ru-tu-ru' refrain adds a layer of melancholy, almost like a wistful sigh that punctuates the narrative. The song's chorus, 'Oh come on Lena, what else are we supposed to do?' captures a sense of resignation and helplessness, as if dancing and fleeting moments of joy are the only solace in a world full of unmet desires.
Hellström's vivid imagery paints a picture of a vibrant yet disenchanted urban landscape. References to 'Jazz house,' 'CocaCola-chiks,' and 'synthesizer-floor' evoke a nightlife filled with superficial pleasures and transient relationships. The mention of 'Elvis boys' and 'Second avenue girls' further emphasizes the theme of broken dreams and unfulfilled aspirations. The song's closing lines, where Hellström envisions himself being forgotten, underscore the transient nature of life and love. 'Come on Lena' is a melancholic yet beautiful reflection on the complexities of human emotions, the inevitability of disillusionment, and the fleeting moments of connection that make life bearable.