Maria Marì
Nataly Oryon Lyrics

The lyrics of "Maria Marì" by Nataly Oryon evoke a deep sense of longing and romantic desire that permeates the singer's expression of love. The opening lines introduce a sense of urgency and desperation as the singer finds themselves yearning for Maria, suggesting that she is a vision of passion and beauty that captivates their heart. The phrase “Arápete fenesta!” (Open the window!) serves as a powerful metaphor for longing; it highlights the desire for connection, as the singer wants to catch a glimpse of Maria, who represents the cherished dreams and aspirations that seem just out of reach. The setting of “mmiez’â via” (in the middle of the street) illustrates a public, exposed vulnerability where the singer’s affection is unrestrained by social norms, indicating that their love for Maria is not just a private affair but something significant enough to be proclaimed openly.

As the lyrics continue, they delve into themes of restlessness and insomnia. The phrase “Nun trovo n'ora 'e pace” (I don’t find a moment of peace) suggests that thoughts of Maria overwhelm the singer, preventing them from finding solace or tranquility. The line reflects the intense emotional turmoil that love can evoke, where the anticipation of seeing or being with a beloved person transforms time into a torment rather than a passage of healing. This longing leads the singer to stay awake at night, converting the hours into moments of hope and desperation, as they look forward to a potential encounter or a chance to speak with Maria. The hopefulness in their plea to be close to her underscores the complexity of longing, where dreams intermingle with sleepless nights, showing how love can be both exhilarating and agonizing.

The chorus of the song becomes a repetitive and haunting plea, expressing the depths of the singer’s passion. The refrain “Oje Marí', oje Marí'! Quanta suonno ca perdo pe' te!” (Oh Maria, oh Maria! How much sleep I lose because of you!) emphasizes the sacrifices made for love, revealing how the singer values moments spent with Maria over rest and tranquility. It portrays the paradox of love—while it brings joy and fulfillment, it simultaneously robs one of peace. The repeated desire to "famme addurmí" (let me sleep) while being wrapped in her arms highlights the intimacy sought, longing for that blissful moment when their love is reciprocated and they can escape the surrounding turmoil together. This pattern of yearning accentuates the emotional weight of unfulfilled connection and desire.

In the later verses, the imagery becomes more intimate and serene, suggesting a deep emotional connection between the singer and Maria. The “ciardeniello” (little garden) filled with "malvarosa" (mallow flowers) in the song’s setting paints a picturesque scene, creating a romantic atmosphere where love blossoms. The singer's commitment to creating a restful space “nu lietto ‘e fronne ‘e rosa” (a bed of rose leaves) is a symbol of devotion, indicating that they are willing to go to great lengths to build a sanctuary for their beloved. As the lyrics suggest, the night becomes sweet and comforting, metaphorically draping the two lovers under the “cielo ch’è nu manto” (sky that is a blanket). This idyllic imagery underscores not only the tranquility they yearn for but also the dream-like quality of love—as they imagine serenading Maria while she sleeps, intertwining their heavy feelings of longing with tender dreams of togetherness. Thus, the song encapsulates a powerful intersection of love's joy and pain, vividly illustrating an emotional landscape that many can relate to.