Come sempre
Salvatore Adamo
Nostalgia and Success: The Duality of 'Come sempre'
Salvatore Adamo's song 'Come sempre' delves into the complex emotions of nostalgia, success, and the inevitable changes that come with time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has achieved fame and fortune but feels a sense of alienation from his old friends. The opening lines, 'Andiamo amici / Non esco di prigione,' suggest a plea for understanding and acceptance, as if the protagonist feels trapped by his circumstances despite his success. The cold stares and distant attitudes of his friends ('I vostri sguardi sono cosi freddi') further emphasize his sense of isolation and guilt, as if they hold him responsible for his own success and the changes it has brought.
The song also reflects on the journey of life and the choices that lead to different paths. The protagonist reminisces about the day he decided to follow his destiny ('Dal giorno che ho creduto / Riconoscere il mio destino') and the adventures that followed. He speaks of living off songs and 'parole al vento,' indicating a life filled with transient moments and fleeting words. Despite the material wealth he has gained ('E vero ho dei soldi'), there is a sense of regret and longing for the simpler times when he was 'squattrinato ma contento'—broke but happy.
'Come sempre' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, highlighting the bittersweet nature of success and the longing for the past. The repeated phrase 'Come sempre' ('As always') serves as a reminder that some things never change, even as everything else does. The song captures the essence of returning to one's roots, seeking solace in familiar places and faces, and the eternal struggle to reconcile one's past with the present. Adamo's heartfelt delivery and evocative lyrics make this song a timeless reflection on life, friendship, and the passage of time.