Che Coss'E' L'Amor

Vinicio Capossela's song "Che Coss'
E' L'Amor" is a poetic exploration of the elusive nature of love, set against a backdrop of vivid imagery and cultural references. The Italian singer-songwriter is known for his eclectic style, which often blends elements of folk, jazz, and world music, and his lyrics frequently delve into themes of love, loss, and existential musings. In this song, Capossela asks the rhetorical question 'What is love?' and seeks answers in the world around him, from the wind's lament to the faded glory of an abandoned gazebo.

The lyrics paint a picture of love as something both tangible and intangible, a nuisance like a stone in one's shoe, yet also a grand, dramatic experience. Capossela uses metaphors such as a slow bolero dance with a foreign rider and the image of Ramona, a character who exudes sensuality and confidence, to convey the complexity and multifaceted nature of love. The song's refrain, where the singer declares himself the 'king of the cellar,' suggests a self-awareness and acceptance of one's place in life, embracing the highs and lows with regal dignity.

Capossela's song also touches on themes of migration and the passage of time, as seen in the references to the 'frozen caravan of lit immigrants' and the address on the dresser of a distant place. Love is depicted as what remains after everything else has been divided and fought over, a precious commodity to be cherished even in the face of adversity. The song's melancholic yet defiant tone captures the essence of love as a force that can uplift and devastate, often leaving us in a state of wonder and bewilderment.