La donna riccia

Renato Carosone's song "La donna riccia" is a playful and humorous exploration of the complexities and capricious nature attributed to women with curly hair. The lyrics advise against marrying a curly-haired woman, suggesting that her curls symbolize unpredictability and whimsical behavior. The repeated refrain, "No, no, no! Riccia, no!" emphasizes the singer's strong aversion to the idea, reinforcing the notion that each curl represents a new caprice or whim that could drive a man to madness.

The song uses vivid metaphors to describe the curly-haired woman as enchanting yet ultimately unreliable. The curls are likened to a tangled skein of yarn, which can entangle and then disentangle, leaving one confused and frustrated. Despite the chaos she brings, there is an undeniable allure to her touch, which can lull a man into a false sense of security. This duality captures the essence of the curly-haired woman as both captivating and confounding.

Culturally, the song reflects traditional Italian views on relationships and the ideal qualities of a partner. Carosone's humorous take on these stereotypes adds a layer of satire, poking fun at the exaggerated fears and misconceptions about women with curly hair. The lively, upbeat melody complements the lighthearted nature of the lyrics, making it a memorable and entertaining piece that resonates with listeners. Carosone, known for his contributions to Neapolitan music and his ability to blend humor with social commentary, delivers a song that is both amusing and thought-provoking.