“An Italian in Paris” is a song by an Italian that describes Paris! In his album Amore Eterno (2007), Davide Esposito sings “Un italien à Paris” by alternating Italian and French lyrics. This song is a cover version of “Englishman in New York” made famous by Sting (1987).
About the song “Un Italien à Paris”
Davide Esposito’s “Un Italien à Paris” is a lyrical exploration of cultural identity and assimilation in a foreign city, echoing themes from Sting’s “Englishman in New York.”
This song encapsulates the experiences and emotions of an Italian living in Paris, highlighting the blend of personal identity with the broader cultural landscape of the city.
Analysis of the Lyrics
Cultural Identity and Adaptation
The song establishes a strong sense of place and identity from the opening lines.
The protagonist starts his day with a typical Italian routine—”Quando fa giorno prendo il mio caffè”—implying that despite being in Paris, he retains elements of his Italian heritage.
Sitting at a table and observing the world around him with an Italian accent, he carries a piece of Italy into the streets of Paris.
This setting along the Seine and through Saint Germain portrays the character’s daily life, merged beautifully with the Parisian backdrop.
Coping with Language and Integration
A significant part of the song deals with language as both a barrier and a bridge.
The line “E se qualcuno dice che non so parlare bene le français” reflects the occasional struggle with not being fluent in French, a common challenge for many immigrants.
Though he admits that bitterness remains, the protagonist handles such situations with a smile.
This duality captures the complex feelings associated with adapting to a new culture while preserving one’s own.
Expression of Freedom and Joy
The chorus, repeated multiple times, “Je suis un Italien, et je vis la vie que j’aime, Un Italien à Paris,” serves as a joyful affirmation of his chosen life, embracing his dual identity as an Italian in Paris.
The lines “Vivo senza regole, La musica nell’anima, Lascia il cuore in piena libertà” translate to living without rules, with music in the soul, letting the heart roam free.
This represents a liberation from conventional constraints, celebrating the beauty of living authentically and freely in a foreign land.
Momentary Escape and Beauty
The phrase “Tutto sembra splendido, Anche per un attimo, Puoi fuggire da questa realtà” conveys a sense of temporary transcendence, suggesting that even for a moment, everything appears wonderful, offering an escape from reality.
This sentiment highlights Paris’s beauty and enchantment for the protagonist, portraying the city as a place where even fleeting moments of beauty provide significant solace and joy.
Conclusion
“Un Italien à Paris” is not just a song about cultural assimilation but also an ode to personal freedom and the joy of living a life one loves, irrespective of where it is.
By blending his Italian identity with the Parisian experience, the protagonist epitomizes the enriching process of cultural integration, where personal heritage and new influences merge to form a fulfilling, vibrant life.
Therefore, the song resonates as a celebration of identity, freedom, and the universal quest for happiness in a world full of diverse and often challenging experiences.
Read the Italian lyrics of the song “Un Italien à Paris”.
Other versions
Englishman in New York
This is the song’s original version, composed and performed by Sting in 1987.
Uma Brasileira em Paris
Anna Torres and Marco Duailibe wrote the Brazilian version in Portuguese, which was released on October 25, 2017.
