Lascia la spina

The song 'Lascia la spina' performed by Cecilia Bartoli, is a classic baroque aria that has been interpreted by various artists over the centuries. The lyrics, originally written in Italian, convey a message that is both simple and profound. The phrase 'Lascia la spina, cogli la rosa,' translates to 'Leave the thorn, pick the rose,' which serves as a metaphor for life's dual nature of pain and beauty. The song suggests that one should focus on the beauty and joy of life (the rose) rather than the pain and suffering (the thorn) that comes with it.

The repetition of 'tu vai cercando il tuo dolor' or 'you go seeking your pain' implies a human tendency to dwell on the negative aspects of life, often to our own detriment. The song encourages the listener to shift their focus away from this self-inflicted pain and instead embrace the fleeting beauty that life has to offer. The reference to 'Canuta brina per mano ascosa,' which can be translated as 'hoary frost by a hidden hand,' further emphasizes the unpredictability of life and the inevitability of change and decay, which often comes when least expected ('giungerà quando nol crede il cuor').

Cecilia Bartoli's rendition of 'Lascia la spina' brings a rich emotional depth to the piece. Her expressive mezzo-soprano voice captures the essence of the baroque era while delivering the timeless message of the lyrics. The song, with its baroque origins, is not only a showcase of vocal prowess but also a reminder to cherish the present and the beauty that life offers amidst its thorns.