Signora

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of a man captivated by a "Signora," who carries herself with an air of aloofness. He perceives her as both severe and complicit, a duality hinted at by her being "hidden behind a curl." This initial observation sets up a dynamic where he feels intensely aware of her presence, believing she can't possibly be ignoring him in this moment. The narrator seems to be wrestling with a forbidden attraction, imagining a dramatic, almost commando-like pursuit, referencing "Entebbe." Yet, he immediately pulls back, recognizing her as "held back by a rubber band" – a vivid image suggesting the constraints of her life: husband, children, home, and perhaps even more serious "plastic bombs." The allure of adventure is present, but contained within the boundaries of her established life. There's a fascinating tension in the narrator's imagined interaction. He proposes a charade: she "says no," and he, "gallantly," declares he'll "die for her love." This performance highlights his awareness of her societal role and his own position as an outsider, creating a theatrical dance of desire and restraint. The phrase "her trap is well-designed" suggests a conscious or unconscious way she keeps admirers at bay, even while appearing "accessible." Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their portrayal of a complex, unfulfilled desire. The narrator acknowledges his experience, leading to a repeated, almost ritualistic declaration of devotion that feels both grand and futile. The repeated lines about dying for her love, framed by the pretense of her refusal, underscore the bittersweet nature of his infatuation – a potent mix of admiration, frustration, and a touch of romantic melodrama.