Penelope

The song 'Penelope' by Robi Draco Rosa is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of longing, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of a person waking up at dawn, their mind clouded with indistinct dreams, and the day beginning with rain—a metaphor for sadness and reflection. The mention of remembering someone in the simple act of having coffee suggests a deep and persistent sense of loss, as the protagonist is haunted by the memory of a loved one, presumably Penelope, who is no longer present.

The imagery of sailing on 'gold ships' filled with gifts symbolizes the efforts and dreams one invests in a relationship, only to see them consumed by the 'sea of my torments'—a powerful metaphor for the emotional turmoil that can arise from jealousy and other relationship struggles. The song's chorus emphasizes the distance between the two individuals, both physically and emotionally, as the protagonist's life crumbles like debris in the rain. This evokes the Greek myth of Penelope, who waited for Odysseus's return, weaving and unweaving a tapestry. However, in this modern retelling, the protagonist seems to be the one waiting, and ultimately, trying to forget.

As the song progresses, the protagonist describes a life spent wandering, with years passing and no sign of the lost love. The desolate streets and the memory of the loved one's face suggest a deep loneliness and an inability to move on. The song concludes with the protagonist seeking refuge in taverns, becoming withdrawn, and wasting what remains of their life in squalor, alternating between trying to forget and remembering Penelope. The song is a lament, a journey through the emotional wreckage left behind by a profound absence, and the struggle to find solace in forgetting.