Balla Balla Ballerino

Lucio Dalla's song "Balla Balla Ballerino" is a poetic and evocative piece that encourages the listener to embrace life with courage and resilience. The recurring motif of dancing serves as a metaphor for living life fully and fearlessly, despite the uncertainties and challenges that come our way. The lyrics urge the 'ballerino' (dancer) to keep moving, to dance through the night and into the morning, symbolizing the relentless passage of time and the importance of seizing the moment.

The song also touches on themes of freedom and transcendence. Dalla sings about flying higher than airplanes and reaching for the sky, suggesting a desire to break free from earthly constraints and achieve a sense of liberation. This is further emphasized by the imagery of dancing on waves and mountains, which evokes a sense of boundless possibility and adventure. The mention of stopping the train from Palermo to Frankfurt adds a layer of personal and emotional depth, hinting at the longing to hold onto fleeting moments and connections.

Moreover, Dalla addresses the darker aspects of life, such as violence and disillusionment. He speaks to those who are quick to anger and wield weapons, suggesting that if they could see the beauty and freedom in dancing, they might realize the futility of their aggression. The song also acknowledges the pain of a 'sick heart'—one that has been deceived, defeated, and abandoned. Yet, even in this sorrow, there is a call to dance, to find solace and strength in movement and music. The closing lines reflect on the enduring power of love, even in a world that often feels harsh and unforgiving. Under a 'sky of iron and plaster,' the capacity to love remains a profound mystery, filled with emotion and tenderness.