La Mula De Parenzo

Gigliola Cinquetti's song 'La Mula De Parenzo' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and identity. The lyrics tell the story of a woman from Parenzo who sets up a shop selling various goods, except for salted cod (baccalà). This detail might seem trivial, but it symbolizes something deeper—perhaps a missing piece in her life or a metaphor for something she cannot offer or receive. The recurring question, 'perché non m'ami più?' ('why don't you love me anymore?'), underscores a sense of abandonment and longing that permeates the song.

The narrative then shifts to the singer's romantic life, where she describes her 'morosa' (lover) as old and kept in reserve, only to be sent out to pasture when the grass grows. This imagery evokes a sense of neglect and utilitarian relationships, where love is not cherished but rather used and discarded. The mention of sending her lover to pasture with the goats further emphasizes a sense of detachment and the mundane nature of her romantic experiences. The singer's vow to never again engage in love with servants ('servette') suggests a desire to break free from past mistakes and seek a more meaningful connection.

The final verse addresses a common misconception about the singer's appearance. People call her blonde, but she insists she has black hair, which she associates with sincerity in love. This contrast between perception and reality highlights the theme of identity and the struggle to be seen for who one truly is. The repeated question, 'why don't you love me anymore?' ties all these elements together, creating a tapestry of unfulfilled desires, misunderstood identity, and the quest for genuine affection. Through its rich metaphors and evocative imagery, 'La Mula De Parenzo' captures the bittersweet essence of love and the human condition.