Ma Rendi Pur Contento

Evandro Oliva's rendition of 'Ma Rendi Pur Contento' is a heartfelt plea that delves deep into the selfless nature of true love. The song, originally composed by Vincenzo Bellini, is a classic example of Italian art song, or 'canzone,' and it beautifully captures the essence of romantic devotion and sacrifice. The lyrics express a lover's earnest request for the happiness of their beloved, even at the cost of their own contentment.

The opening lines, 'Ma rendi pur contento / Della mia bella il core,' translate to 'But make my beautiful one’s heart happy.' This sets the tone for the entire song, highlighting the lover's primary concern for their beloved's joy. The lover is willing to forgive any transgressions ('E ti perdono, amore') if it means their beloved can find happiness, even if their own heart remains unfulfilled ('Se lieto il mio / Il mio non è'). This self-sacrificial love is a recurring theme in romantic literature and music, emphasizing the depth of the lover's feelings.

The song further explores the lover's empathy and connection with their beloved through the lines, 'Gli affanni suoi pavento / Più degli affanni miei,' meaning 'I fear her troubles more than my own.' This illustrates the lover's profound emotional bond and their willingness to endure personal suffering to alleviate their beloved's pain. The concluding lines, 'Perché più vivo in lei / Di quel ch'io vivo, io vivo in me,' which translate to 'Because I live more in her than I live in myself,' encapsulate the ultimate expression of selfless love. The lover's identity and existence are intertwined with their beloved's well-being, showcasing a love that transcends personal boundaries.

Evandro Oliva's performance brings out the emotional intensity and lyrical beauty of this classic piece, making it a timeless ode to the power of selfless love.