i manichini
Adriano Modica Lyrics
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che cosa vogliono dirsi tra loro i manichini
in questo assomigliano un po' alle persone
non tanto la faccia
fanno i naturali
fanno finta di ridere e stare fermi
ma si vede che non gli importa niente
non si sa mai
che vogliono fare le ombre sui muri
in questo assomigliano un po' ai manichini
è il silenzio nella pancia dei morti
ma ha le luci colorate del flipper
ma i manichini ridono e fanno ...
In Adriano Modica’s song “I Manichini,” the lyrics evoke a sense of existential reflection through the metaphor of mannequins. The opening lines suggest an enigma surrounding the relationship between the mannequins themselves. The phrase "non si sa mai che cosa vogliono dirsi tra loro," captures a feeling of mystery often associated with human relationships, emphasizing that despite their static and lifeless appearances, these mannequins share a complexity akin to that of people. This personification hints at a broader commentary on communication and connection; it raises questions about our own interactions and the unseen emotions that might lie beneath the surface, mirroring our own human experience.
The next stanza reinforces this theme, contrasting the mannequins' stillness with a facade of naturalness. The line "fanno i naturali, fanno finta di ridere e stare fermi," suggests a veneer of happiness or peace maintained through their immobility and expressions. Yet, the realization that "si vede che non gli importa niente" reveals a profound emptiness, as if these mannequins are performing roles without any genuine engagement or emotion. This duality encapsulated in their behavior can be seen as an allegory for societal expectations, where individuals often feel compelled to present themselves positively despite internal apathy or disillusionment. The juxtaposition between performance and authenticity speaks to the human condition—how we might mask our true feelings for the sake of appearances.
The imagery of shadows in the following lines further deepens the thematic exploration of existence and meaning. The uncertainty surrounding "che vogliono fare le ombre sui muri" parallels the previous reflections on the mannequins. Shadows can signify a sense of being, hinting at the presence of a deeper reality—even if just hinted at. This urge to exist in some form, even as shadows, draws a line connecting the silent life of mannequins to a broader interpretation of life itself, appearing foundational and instinctual. The parallels it draws between the mannequins, the shadows, and human life suggest that everyone grapples with identity and meaning, often obscured by societal constructs.
Finally, the haunting line “è il silenzio nella pancia dei morti ma ha le luci colorate del flipper” brings an impactful and somewhat macabre twist to the discussion. It evokes the stillness associated with death contrasted with the vibrant, chaotic allure of a pinball machine, a symbol of chance, play, and the whimsical nature of life. This stark imagery positions the mannequins within a larger narrative of existential contemplation—encouraging listeners to ponder the intersection of life, death, and all the performances we enact in between. By observing the illusions of joy and stillness, Modica seems to invite a reflection on the deeper, perhaps uncomfortable aspects of existence and the human experience, making “I Manichini” both a poignant observation and a rich metaphor for introspection.
Line by Line Meaning
non si sa mai
One can never truly know
che cosa vogliono dirsi tra loro i manichini
what the mannequins might be trying to communicate with each other
in questo assomigliano un po' alle persone
In this aspect, they resemble humans to some degree
non tanto la faccia
not so much in their facial expressions
fanno i naturali
they act as if they are natural or lifelike
fanno finta di ridere e stare fermi
they pretend to laugh and remain still
ma si vede che non gli importa niente
but it is clear that they are indifferent and care for nothing
non si sa mai
One can never truly know
che vogliono fare le ombre sui muri
what intentions they harbor in casting shadows on the walls
in questo assomigliano un po' ai manichini
in this regard, they bear some resemblance to the mannequins
è il silenzio nella pancia dei morti
it is the silence found within the belly of the dead
ma ha le luci colorate del flipper
yet it's adorned with the vibrant lights reminiscent of a pinball machine
ma i manichini ridono e fanno ...
but the mannequins laugh and engage in an enigmatic activity...
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Adriano Modica
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind