Song meaning of Per nome by Lucio Battisti

The song "Per nome" by Lucio Battisti expresses the admiration and fascination the speaker has for someone with a beautiful name. The lyrics suggest that the person referred to by this name is elusive and mysterious, as if hiding in the depths of a forest or an unknown creature. The way they turn, revealing their captivating features, leaves the speaker stunned and enchanted.

The chorus indicates that while the speaker only remembers the name vaguely, it holds a significant impact on their thoughts. The name triggers a sense of suspended anticipation and fascination. It is described as both beautiful and untouched, suggesting a sense of innocence and purity. The speaker implies that saying the name out loud would be both irresistible and satisfying, akin to biting into a ripe fig.

The second stanza delves into the inner world of the person with the beautiful name. The person is described as self-aware and contemplative, measuring the distance between their throat and the full range of their emotions. The imagery of the breath being harmonized with the bow of a musical instrument suggests a connection between their internal and external experiences.

In the final chorus, the name is referred to as a protective aura that strengthens forgetfulness. The speaker feels attacked by the tip of their tongue whenever they try to pronounce the name, asserting its power over them. The name remains both beautiful and forgetful, and the person associated with it continues to observe something intently, leaving the speaker curious and unable to decipher their thoughts.

Overall, "Per nome" appears to explore the allure and mystique that a name can hold, capturing the speaker's fascination with an individual whose beauty and enigma are deeply entwined.