Funiculi-funiculà

“Funiculi-funiculà” is a lively and spirited song that captures the essence of joy and adventure. Written in 1880 by Luigi Denza with lyrics by Peppino Turco, it was originally composed to commemorate the opening of the first funicular railway on Mount Vesuvius. The song has since become a classic, often performed by various artists, including Piovesan, who brings his unique interpretation to this timeless piece.

The lyrics of “Funiculi-funiculà” are a celebration of the exhilarating experience of ascending a mountain via the funicular. In the first verse, the singer describes the excitement of the journey, emphasizing the sense of freedom and the escape from the mundane. The imagery of a heart no longer burdened by ungratefulness and the intense heat that doesn’t chase you if you flee, paints a picture of liberation and joy. The repeated refrain, “Lesti, lesti via, montian su là,” which translates to “Quickly, quickly, let’s go up there,” reinforces the eagerness and enthusiasm of the climb.

In the second verse, the song takes on a more romantic tone. The singer speaks of the breathtaking views from the mountain, where one can see France, Procida, and Spain, but most importantly, the singer sees their beloved. The funicular ride becomes a metaphor for the journey of love, where the ascent represents the heights of passion and the shared experience of wonder and beauty. The ease and speed of the funicular, likened to the wind, symbolize the effortless and exhilarating nature of true love.

The final verse brings the theme of love full circle. The singer reflects on the journey, noting that even though they have reached the summit and returned, their feelings remain unchanged. The head spins with the excitement of love, and the heart sings as it did on the first day. The repetition of “intorno a te” (around you) and “ti sposa a me” (marries you to me) underscores the enduring and binding nature of their love. The funicular ride, with its ups and downs, mirrors the journey of a relationship, filled with moments of exhilaration and steadfast commitment.