Ulisse (feat. Aida Garifulina)

Dimash Kudaibergen's song 'Ulisse,' featuring Aida Garifulina, is a poetic exploration of the timeless journey of self-discovery and the human condition, drawing inspiration from the epic tale of Odysseus (Ulisse in Italian). The lyrics are rich with metaphors and classical references, creating a tapestry that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. The song opens with the lines 'Polarità, ambiguità / Cime d'argento nel blu,' which translate to 'Polarity, ambiguity / Silver peaks in the blue.' These lines set the stage for a journey filled with contradictions and challenges, much like the life of Odysseus himself.

The chorus, 'Per Ulisse Odissea, vita, morte e idea / Viaggio che traffigge l'anima, l'infinito amar,' translates to 'For Ulysses, Odyssey, life, death, and idea / A journey that pierces the soul, the infinite love.' This encapsulates the essence of the song, portraying the odyssey as not just a physical journey but a profound spiritual and emotional quest. The mention of 'Itaca mia!' (My Ithaca!) signifies the ultimate goal or destination, which in the context of the song, represents self-realization and inner peace. The lyrics 'Sono in balia dei tuoi vizi e virtu' (I am at the mercy of your vices and virtues) further emphasize the duality and complexity of the human experience.

The song also invokes divine guidance with the lines 'Dio del mar, del grande amar / Guida la nave perché / Nel navigar, nel aspettar / C'è la ricerca di se,' which means 'God of the sea, of great love / Guide the ship because / In navigating, in waiting / There is the search for oneself.' This plea for divine intervention highlights the vulnerability and hope inherent in the human quest for meaning. Dimash's powerful vocals, combined with Aida Garifulina's ethereal voice, create a hauntingly beautiful rendition that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level, making 'Ulisse' a modern-day ode to the eternal journey of the soul.