Suicidio - La Gioconda

Maria Callas, renowned for her powerful and emotive operatic performances, brings a profound sense of despair and finality in the aria 'Suicidio' from the opera 'La Gioconda.' The lyrics, sung by the character La Gioconda, reflect a moment of intense emotional turmoil and contemplation of suicide as an escape from her suffering. The repetition of the word 'Suicidio' at the beginning sets a dramatic tone, immediately immersing the listener in the character's desperate state of mind.

The lyrics delve into La Gioconda's reflections on her life, marked by loss and suffering. She recounts losing her mother and her love, which has left her feeling utterly desolate. The phrase 'Ultima voce del mio destino' (Last voice of my destiny) and 'Ultima croce del mio cammin' (Last cross of my path) suggest that she sees suicide as the final chapter in her tragic journey. The imagery of 'volavan l'ore' (the hours flew by) contrasts sharply with her current state of exhaustion and darkness, emphasizing the stark difference between her past and present.

The aria also touches on themes of fate and resignation. La Gioconda speaks of conquering a 'gelosa febre' (jealous fever), only to find herself now 'piombo esausta fra le tenèbre' (exhausted, falling into darkness). This shift from triumph to utter defeat highlights the relentless nature of her suffering. In her final plea, 'Domando al cielo di dormir quieta dentro l'avel' (I ask the heavens to sleep quietly in the grave), she seeks peace in death, viewing it as a release from her relentless torment. Callas's interpretation of this aria brings out the raw emotion and tragic beauty of La Gioconda's plight, making it a poignant and unforgettable piece.