C'era Una Volta

Nina Zilli's song 'C'era Una Volta' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. The title, which translates to 'Once Upon a Time,' sets the stage for a nostalgic reflection on a past relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and finality, as the singer expresses her emotions for the last time, knowing that love is fleeting and unforgiving. The repetition of 'Canto per te' (I sing for you) underscores the personal and intimate nature of this farewell.

The chorus, with its repeated lines 'No, non c'è e non c'è più' (No, it's not there and it's no longer there), emphasizes the irrevocable loss of what once was. The imagery of a name written on sand, easily washed away by the tides, symbolizes the impermanence of love and memories. This metaphor highlights the fragility of human connections and the inevitability of change, leaving the singer with nothing but a song to remember the past.

In the verses, the singer pleads for a promise to keep the memory of their love private, acknowledging that tomorrow will come quickly and bring solitude. The mention of playing the best card and being cautious of its color suggests a final attempt to make the most of the remaining time together, despite knowing that the future holds more rain and sorrow. The song's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics capture the essence of a love that was once cherished but is now a distant memory, leaving the listener with a sense of bittersweet longing.