Pigliate 'na pastiglia

Renato Carosone's song 'Pigliate 'na pastiglia' is a delightful blend of humor and melancholy, capturing the essence of Neapolitan culture with its witty lyrics and catchy melody. The song tells the story of a man who is unable to sleep and is tormented by the memory of a lost love. He wanders the streets at night, encountering various characters and scenes that add to his sense of despair and longing. The recurring advice he receives is to 'take a pill,' a humorous suggestion that reflects the growing reliance on pharmaceuticals to solve emotional problems.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the man's sleepless nights, filled with the sounds of a banging shutter, a glowing streetlamp, and a drunken man knocking on a door, pleading to be let in. These images create a sense of restlessness and unease, mirroring the man's internal turmoil. The suggestion to 'take a pill' is repeated throughout the song, highlighting the absurdity of trying to find a quick fix for deep emotional pain. The song also references the changing landscape of pharmacies, where traditional remedies like chamomile have been replaced by modern pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the theme of societal change and the loss of simpler times.

Carosone's playful yet poignant lyrics are complemented by his signature musical style, which blends traditional Neapolitan music with jazz and swing influences. This fusion creates a lively and engaging backdrop for the song's narrative, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. 'Pigliate 'na pastiglia' is a testament to Carosone's ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with humor and charm, offering a timeless commentary on the human condition and the search for solace in a rapidly changing world.