Il conformista

Giorgio Gaber's song 'Il conformista' is a satirical exploration of the modern individual's tendency to adapt and conform to prevailing social and political trends. Gaber, an influential Italian singer-songwriter and theater artist, uses his sharp wit and keen observational skills to critique the superficiality and inconsistency of those who constantly shift their beliefs to align with the majority. The song's protagonist proudly declares himself a 'new man,' listing a series of ideological stances he has adopted over time, from being a 'fascist' to a 'socialist,' and from an 'environmentalist' to a 'feminist.' This rapid succession of labels highlights the character's lack of genuine conviction and his eagerness to fit in with whatever is currently popular.

The chorus of the song delves deeper into the nature of the conformist, describing him as someone who always sides with the majority and has clear-cut answers to everything, often derived from second-hand opinions. Gaber paints a picture of a person who is well-versed in the language of social discourse but lacks depth and originality. The conformist is depicted as a 'concentrate of opinions' who reads multiple newspapers but only thinks 'for hearsay.' This portrayal underscores the idea that the conformist's beliefs are not his own but are borrowed from the collective consciousness, making him an 'opportunist' who adapts without much thought.

Gaber's critique extends to the conformist's lifestyle, describing him as someone who 'moves without consistency' and 'floats' through life, content with superficial achievements. The conformist is likened to an 'aerostato evoluto' (an evolved hot air balloon), inflated by information but lacking substance. This metaphor emphasizes the emptiness of a life lived on the surface, without delving into deeper, more meaningful experiences. Gaber concludes by acknowledging that the conformist is not an isolated phenomenon but a reflection of a broader societal trend, suggesting that many of us may share these traits to some extent. Through 'Il conformista,' Gaber invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the authenticity of their convictions in a world that often values conformity over individuality.