Voi Che Sapete (Le Nozze Di Figaro)

In 'Voi Che Sapete,' a famous aria from Mozart's opera 'Le Nozze di Figaro,' performed by Evandro Oliva, the character Cherubino expresses the confusion and intensity of young love. The lyrics, sung in Italian, capture the essence of a young boy's emotional turmoil as he grapples with feelings he doesn't fully understand. Cherubino, a page boy, is overwhelmed by his newfound emotions and seeks guidance from the women around him, asking them to help him make sense of what he feels in his heart.

The aria is filled with vivid metaphors that illustrate the duality of love. Cherubino describes his feelings as both delightful and torturous, a common theme in romantic literature. He experiences a range of emotions, from the warmth of desire to the coldness of uncertainty, symbolized by phrases like 'Gelo, e poi sento l'alma avvampar' (I freeze, and then I feel my soul on fire). This juxtaposition highlights the unpredictable and often contradictory nature of love, especially in its early stages.

Culturally, 'Voi Che Sapete' is significant as it reflects the societal norms and expectations of the time. In the 18th century, when 'Le Nozze di Figaro' was composed, young men like Cherubino were expected to navigate their emotions with a certain decorum, yet Mozart's music and Lorenzo Da Ponte's libretto allow Cherubino's vulnerability to shine through. This aria remains a poignant exploration of youthful passion and the universal quest for understanding one's own heart.