Meaning of Polli di Allevamento by Giorgio Gaber

The Captivating Critique of Modern Society: Unpacking the Meaning of "Polli di Allevamento" by Giorgio Gaber

As I delved into the lyrics of "Polli di Allevamento" by Giorgio Gaber, I couldn’t help but be struck by the profound commentary on modern society. This thought-provoking song, penned by the Italian artist, serves as a scathing critique of the conformity, disillusionment, and existential crisis that plagues contemporary humanity. Through the metaphor of chickens raised in captivity, Gaber masterfully exposes the dehumanizing effects of consumerism, the futility of chasing unattainable aspirations, and the subsequent sense of emptiness and alienation.

A Flock of Conformity

The song begins by introducing the "polli di allevamento," a group of chickens confined and controlled, symbolizing the masses of people who have lost their individuality in the midst of societal pressure. The lyrics describe them as being fed a diet of music and revolutions, highlighting the ways in which people are distracted and pacified by superficial entertainment and false promises of change. This imagery is a powerful commentary on the ways in which people are conditioned to conform to societal norms, rather than seeking genuine fulfillment.

The Allure of Consumerism

The song’s narrative takes a turn when it describes the chickens’ infatuation with bright colors and lonely highways. This allusion to the allure of consumerism and the pursuit of individualistic dreams serves as a stark reminder of the emptiness that often follows. The repetition of "inventare le loro Americhe" (inventing their own Americas) emphasizes the grand ambitions and desires for a better life that often lead to isolation and disconnection from others**.

The Illusion of Freedom

As the song progresses, Gaber masterfully captures the illusion of freedom and empowerment. The image of hands on the steering wheel, the scent of incense, and the exhilaration of driving at high speeds represents the intoxicating feeling of control and liberation. However, the repetition of "finché non scoppia il cuore" (until the heart bursts) serves as a haunting reminder that this pursuit of freedom and fulfillment is ultimately unsustainable and unfulfilling**.

A Dichotomy of Existence

The juxtaposition between intense joy and a sense of impending death is a recurring theme throughout the song. This dichotomy highlights the existential crisis that arises when people are trapped in a cycle of materialistic pursuits, feeling a deep emptiness and disconnection from others. The lyrics beautifully capture the paradox of human existence, where people are driven by a desire for connection and meaning, yet often find themselves alone and unfulfilled.

Frustration and Disillusionment

As the song reaches its climax, the tone shifts to express the frustration and disillusionment felt by the "polli di allevamento." They are depicted as bouncing from one country to another, one person to another, chasing an elusive force that seems to drive them toward madness. This imagery serves as a powerful commentary on the sense of aimlessness and purposelessness that can result from living in a society that prioritizes self-interest and personal gain.

A Beautiful Sense of Death

The lyrics also touch upon the ambivalence and unpredictability of human relations. The chickens are unsure whether to expect a smile or a stab when passing someone on a dimly lit street, reflecting the sense of alienation and distrust that arises from living in a society where individuals are conditioned to prioritize self-interest. The use of the phrase "un bel senso di morte" (a beautiful sense of death) serves as a poignant reminder of the existential crisis that can result from living in a society that values individualism over human connection.

A Nonsensical Refrain

The song concludes with the repetition of "dlin dlan," a nonsensical refrain that serves as a powerful commentary on the absurdity and meaninglessness of existence. This enigmatic phrase can be seen as a representation of the futility of human existence, highlighting the search for meaning and connection in a seemingly meaningless world.

Conclusion

"Polli di Allevamento" by Giorgio Gaber is a masterful critique of modern society, exposing the dehumanizing effects of consumerism, the futility of chasing unattainable aspirations, and the subsequent sense of emptiness and alienation. Through the metaphor of chickens raised in captivity, Gaber provides a poignant commentary on the existential crisis that can result from living in a society that prioritizes self-interest and personal gain. As I listened to this song, I couldn’t help but be struck by the profound wisdom and insight that it offers, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection and meaningful living.

Watch Top 100 Songs in 2024