Song meaning of Il Ballo Di San Vito by Vinicio Capossela

The song "Il Ballo Di San Vito" by Vinicio Capossela conveys a sense of chaos and desperation through its lyrics. It paints a picture of a lively and intense atmosphere filled with burning sausages, dancing flames, and vendors selling their wares. It describes a land in the south, on the border, where the continent is indifferent, and only the wind carries significance.

The mention of Mustafà from Africa brings a sense of foreignness and exoticism, as if his presence is a reminder of a different world. The repetition of "Ho il ballo di San Vito e non mi passa" (I have the St. Vitus' dance, and it won't go away) conveys an overwhelming feeling of restlessness or affliction that cannot be cured. This is further emphasized by the image of the "taranta," a frenzied dance associated with the bite of a poisonous spider.

The lyrics touch on themes of disunity and exclusion through lines such as "Cerchio che chiude, cerchio che apre" (a circle that closes, a circle that opens) and "Cerchio che abbraccia e poi ti scaccia" (a circle that embraces and then expels you). It suggests a constant struggle for acceptance and belonging, as if being trapped in a circle that never allows one to fully fit in.

Overall, the song seems to be a metaphorical representation of the inner turmoil and unrest that individuals may experience in society. It explores the idea of not being able to fit into predefined roles or norms and the consequent isolation and despair that can result.