Incoeu l'è l'ultim dì
Nanni Svampa
A Soldier's Farewell: The Last Day Before Departure
Nanni Svampa's song "Incoeu l'è l'ultim dì" captures the poignant emotions of a soldier on the eve of his departure. The title, which translates to "Today is the Last Day," sets the tone for a narrative filled with melancholy and resignation. The repetition of the phrase "Doman l'è la partenza" ("Tomorrow is the departure") underscores the inevitability of the soldier's fate and the looming separation from his loved ones. This repetition serves as a constant reminder of the transient nature of the present moment, heightening the emotional weight of the farewell.
The lyrics address a "morosa tencia" (a beloved or sweetheart), highlighting the personal sacrifices and emotional toll of leaving behind a significant other. The soldier's acknowledgment that he must go and serve ("Me tocca andà soldà") reflects a sense of duty and obligation, despite the personal cost. This line encapsulates the universal theme of duty versus desire, a common struggle faced by those who serve in the military.
The song also touches on the broader impact of the soldier's departure on the community. The line "Serègn el resta senza de tanta gioventù" ("Serègn remains without so much youth") speaks to the collective loss experienced by the town of Serègn, which will be left without many of its young people. This communal aspect adds another layer of depth to the song, illustrating how the departure of soldiers affects not just individuals but entire communities. Svampa's poignant lyrics and emotive delivery make "Incoeu l'è l'ultim dì" a powerful reflection on the sacrifices and emotional struggles associated with military service.