Come Facette Mammeta?

Massimo Ranieri's song 'Come Facette Mammeta?' is a beautiful ode to the wonders of creation, specifically focusing on the beauty and uniqueness of a woman named Concetta. The song is sung in Neapolitan dialect, adding a layer of cultural richness and authenticity. The lyrics are essentially a series of rhetorical questions and poetic descriptions, marveling at how Concetta's mother could have created such a perfect being. The repeated question, 'Vuó' sapé comme facette?' ('Do you want to know how she made you?'), serves as a refrain that ties the song together, emphasizing the awe and admiration the singer feels.

The song uses vivid and imaginative metaphors to describe Concetta's features. For instance, her beautiful flesh is compared to a mixture of roses and milk, suggesting purity and delicacy. Her lips are described as being made from a basket full of garden strawberries, honey, sugar, and cinnamon, evoking sweetness and allure. Her golden braids are likened to a treasure trove of filigree, indicating their preciousness and intricate beauty. These metaphors not only highlight Concetta's physical attributes but also elevate them to an almost mythical level, suggesting that her beauty is beyond ordinary human comprehension.

The recurring line, 'Nun c'è bisogno 'a zingara p'andiviná, Cuncè' ('There's no need for a fortune teller to guess, Concetta'), underscores the idea that her beauty is so evident and extraordinary that it doesn't require any mystical explanation. The song celebrates the artistry and love involved in creation, attributing Concetta's beauty to her mother's skill and care. This theme resonates universally, as it speaks to the idea that true beauty is crafted with love and attention to detail, making it timeless and priceless.