Escluso Il Cane

Rino Gaetano's song 'Escluso Il Cane' delves into the themes of love, isolation, and the superficiality of human connections. The repeated phrase 'Chi mi dice ti amo' (Who tells me I love you) sets the tone for the song, highlighting the singer's quest for genuine affection. However, the caveat 'Ma togli il cane' (But remove the dog) suggests that the only true, unconditional love he receives is from his dog. This metaphor underscores the idea that human relationships are often fraught with insincerity and ulterior motives, contrasting sharply with the pure, uncomplicated love of a pet.

The lyrics paint a bleak picture of the people around the singer, describing them as 'cattivi' (bad), 'poco disponibili' (unavailable), and 'miscredenti' (non-believers). These descriptors emphasize the singer's disillusionment with society, where people are depicted as self-serving and disconnected. The mention of 'aforismi perduti nel nulla' (aphorisms lost in nothingness) further illustrates the emptiness and lack of meaningful communication in these relationships. The song's repetitive structure and melancholic tone reinforce the sense of loneliness and yearning for something more substantial.

Gaetano also critiques the superficiality of modern life, referencing 'paranoia e dispersione' (paranoia and dispersion) and 'films d'azione' (action films) as symbols of a society obsessed with trivial distractions. The line 'Allestite anche le unioni dalle ditte di canzoni' (Even unions are set up by song companies) suggests that even romantic relationships are commodified and manipulated by external forces. This cynical view of love and society is a recurring theme in Gaetano's work, reflecting his broader commentary on the human condition. The refrain 'E tu non torni più da me' (And you don't come back to me) poignantly captures the singer's sense of abandonment and longing for a return to genuine connection.