Per un vecchio bambino

Roberto Vecchioni's song "Per un vecchio bambino" is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The lyrics convey a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for a time when the subject of the song, presumably a child or a younger version of oneself, was carefree and rebellious. The opening lines set the tone by contrasting the past with the present, highlighting the frustration and despair of watching someone grow up too quickly or not at all. The repeated admonitions and the child's carefree responses underscore the tension between youthful exuberance and the desire for maturity.

The song delves into the complexities of parenthood and mentorship, where the narrator recalls the child's impulsive actions and the inevitable mistakes that come with growing up. The imagery of competitions and the child's constant disobedience paints a vivid picture of a spirited and independent individual. The refrain, "Bimbo, bimbo mio," serves as a haunting reminder of the child's absence, evoking a sense of loss and the surreal experience of looking around and not seeing them anymore. This refrain is both a lament and a testament to the enduring bond between the narrator and the child.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the child has grown up and moved on, leaving the narrator to grapple with their absence. The mention of horses, cards, and dreams symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The narrator's longing to see the child, even for a brief moment, and the recurring disappointment of just missing them at the bar, adds a layer of melancholy to the song. The final verses reveal a moment of shared inebriation and a lack of seriousness, suggesting that the narrator and their friend Sergio might have missed an opportunity to connect more deeply with the child. This admission of fault and the repeated refrain underscore the song's central theme of loss and the enduring impact of those we love.