Ma Chi E' Quello Lì
Mina
The Supermarket Crush: A Tale of Obsession and Missed Connections
Mina's song "Ma Chi E' Quello Lì" is a playful and humorous exploration of infatuation and the often absurd lengths to which it can drive us. The setting is a mundane supermarket, where the protagonist is initially preoccupied with everyday tasks like buying pasta and cheese. However, her attention is quickly diverted by the sight of a man who captivates her with his physical presence, described in exaggerated terms like having thighs as big as tires and a mouth like a banana. This hyperbolic imagery adds a comedic layer to the song, emphasizing the intensity of her sudden attraction.
The lyrics capture the protagonist's internal monologue as she becomes increasingly obsessed with this stranger. She contemplates various strategies to initiate a conversation, from asking for advice on tomatoes to making bold, direct statements. Despite her efforts, the man remains oblivious or uninterested, leading to a series of missed connections that heighten her frustration. The repetition of phrases like "E intanto lui se ne va" (And meanwhile, he goes away) underscores her sense of urgency and disappointment.
Culturally, the song taps into the universal experience of fleeting attraction and the often comical nature of our attempts to act on it. Mina, known for her powerful voice and emotive delivery, brings a sense of drama and relatability to the narrative. The supermarket setting serves as a metaphor for the randomness of life and love, where significant moments can occur in the most ordinary places. The song's light-hearted tone and vivid descriptions make it a memorable and entertaining commentary on human desire and the complexities of making a connection.