Avrei Voluto
Nicky Nicolai
The Melancholic Longing in 'Avrei Voluto'
Nicky Nicolai's song 'Avrei Voluto' is a poignant exploration of regret, longing, and the complexities of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil, using the metaphor of rain to symbolize the protagonist's inner pain and sorrow. The rain, described as 'coltelli d'acqua' (knives of water), penetrates deeply, reflecting the sharp and cutting nature of the protagonist's emotional state. This imagery sets the tone for a narrative steeped in melancholy and introspection.
The song delves into the theme of missed opportunities and the haunting presence of past decisions. The line 'La strada era d'argento ormai e la vita che scartai' (The road was silver now and the life I discarded) suggests a moment of reflection on the choices that led to the current state of despair. The protagonist is confronted with the life they could have had, a life that now feels distant and unattainable. This sense of loss is further emphasized by the recurring desire to surrender and hold on to a love that seems to slip away, as expressed in 'Avrei voluto tanto arrendermi per trattenerti qui' (I would have liked to surrender to keep you here).
Nicolai's delivery of the lyrics adds an additional layer of emotional depth. Her voice carries the weight of the protagonist's sorrow, making the listener feel the intensity of the longing and regret. The song's structure, with its repetitive and reflective verses, mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist's thoughts and emotions. The rain, a constant presence throughout the song, symbolizes both the cleansing and the inescapable nature of these feelings. Ultimately, 'Avrei Voluto' is a powerful meditation on love, loss, and the enduring impact of our choices.