L'unica Superstite

The song "L'unica Superstite" by Modena City Ramblers tells a harrowing yet ultimately hopeful story set during World War II. The narrative centers around Lilli, a young girl living in Bettola, a small village in the mountains of Reggio Emilia, Italy. The song begins with a serene evening scene, quickly shattered by the brutal realities of war. In 1944, during the night of San Giovanni, three partisans are discovered by a German patrol while attempting to destroy a bridge. This leads to a violent retaliation by the SS, who decide to make an example of the village.

The lyrics vividly describe the terror as soldiers go house to house, executing men, women, and children. Lilli's family is not spared; she falls between her grandparents, covered in their blood. Despite being wounded, Lilli manages to escape the burning house by jumping out of a window. The song captures the chaos and horror of that night, with the sounds of gunfire, screams, and the neighing of terrified animals filling the air. Lilli's struggle to survive, despite her injuries and the overwhelming danger, is a testament to her resilience.

In the morning, Lilli is found alive but severely injured. A postman rescues her, taking her to relatives in the plains where she eventually recovers. The war ends, and the Germans leave, but the trauma lingers. For years, Lilli is haunted by nightmares and loses her voice. The song concludes on a bittersweet note, revealing that Lilli now lives a peaceful life as a grandmother. However, the memories of that night still haunt her, occasionally waking her in the dark with visions of Bettola in flames. This poignant story underscores the enduring impact of war on individuals and the strength of the human spirit to overcome unimaginable adversity.