Com'è Profondo Il Mare

Lucio Dalla's 'Com'è Profondo Il Mare' is a profound and evocative song that delves into themes of societal despair, resistance, and the unyielding nature of human thought. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of marginalized individuals who hide in the shadows, symbolizing those who are often overlooked or oppressed by society. The recurring line 'Com'è profondo il mare' (How deep is the sea) serves as a metaphor for the vast and unfathomable depths of human suffering and resilience.

The song also touches on the loss of dignity and the struggle for survival in a world where work and honor have become scarce. Dalla critiques the powers that be, suggesting that they seek to divide and harm the populace, pushing them to the brink of despair. The imagery of the sea becomes a powerful symbol of both the overwhelming challenges faced by the poor and their indomitable spirit. The sea, in its depth and vastness, represents the collective consciousness and the uncontainable nature of human thought and resistance.

Dalla's narrative takes a historical and almost mythical turn, describing how the oppressed rise up, only to be crushed again by those in power. The song's progression from individual suffering to collective action and back to subjugation highlights the cyclical nature of oppression and resistance. The mention of a 'mystic' who invents 'commotion' and reconciles the beautiful with the ugly adds a layer of irony, suggesting that even attempts at unity can be superficial and damaging. The fish, representing the origins of humanity, observe the human drama with a detached curiosity, underscoring the absurdity and tragedy of the human condition.

Ultimately, 'Com'è Profondo Il Mare' is a powerful commentary on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of systemic oppression. It underscores the idea that thought and resistance, like the ocean, cannot be easily contained or destroyed, despite the efforts of those in power to suppress them.