Sempre
Paolo Vallesi
Eternal Longing: The Heartfelt Yearning in Paolo Vallesi's 'Sempre'
Paolo Vallesi's song 'Sempre' is a poignant exploration of enduring love and the deep sense of loss that accompanies the absence of a loved one. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man wandering through a desolate night, grappling with the harsh winds of a storm both literal and metaphorical. The imagery of 'eating salt and sand' and enduring the cold highlights the physical and emotional toll of his solitude. The city, swept by a tempest, mirrors his inner turmoil, emphasizing the cage-like nature of life without his beloved.
The chorus, with its repeated use of 'sempre' (always), underscores the protagonist's unending obsession and longing. He dreams of his lost love, questioning why she is no longer with him and why he continues to call her 'amore' (love). This repetition not only conveys his persistent yearning but also his inability to move on, as he is trapped in a cycle of memories and emotions. The 'serpent of boredom' biting his heart and the 'ghost of joy' on the dark beach further illustrate his despair and the void left by her absence.
In the latter part of the song, Vallesi's lyrics take on a more desperate tone. He speaks of killing the moon to find out where she is, symbolizing his willingness to go to extreme lengths to reconnect with her. The 'dog of misfortune' following him daily signifies the relentless bad luck and sorrow he faces. Despite his anger and confusion, he continues to proclaim his love, shouting to the world that she is his. The song concludes with a powerful declaration of eternal love, even in the face of an unfillable void, capturing the essence of an undying, albeit painful, devotion.