Il Sognatore

Toto Cotugno's song "Il Sognatore" delves into the life of a dreamer, someone who uses imagination as a refuge from the harsh realities of life. The protagonist describes becoming a dreamer to feel less lonely and to escape the passage of time. This transformation allows him to sell dreams and sing songs he doesn't even know, highlighting a life lived in the realm of fantasy rather than reality.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how the dreamer perceives the world. With closed eyes, he can capture the essence of the world and see the depth of the sea in negative, suggesting a unique and introspective way of understanding life. The wrinkle on his face symbolizes a past love, marking him permanently. Despite being labeled as foolish or fortunate, the dreamer finds solace in his dreams, free from the disappointments that reality often brings.

The song also touches on the theme of lost love and the acceptance of life's impermanence. The dreamer acknowledges the end of a significant relationship, respecting the rules of the game with a heavy heart. He leaves behind a poetic memory, emphasizing that the future holds little importance. The dreamer is resigned to his fate, understanding that in a thousand years, dreamers might be seen as relics of the past who thrived on emotions. Yet, he remains steadfast in his identity, choosing to stay a dreamer even if it means being alone in the world.

"Il Sognatore" is a poignant exploration of solitude, imagination, and the bittersweet nature of dreams. It captures the essence of a life lived in the mind, where dreams offer both escape and meaning in a world that often says no.