Mettere Le Ali

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of dreaming as a boundless escape, a way to transcend any physical or situational limitation. Whether observing from afar, seeking solace in confession, or lost in intimacy, the narrator insists that no place is better than the dreamscape for transformation. This dream world is where the impossible becomes possible, where any solid ground can become a fluid sea, offering a profound shift in perspective. The central tension lies in the contrast between the mundane realities and the radical potential of the dream. The song lists diverse scenarios—a glass house, a confessional, a courtroom, a fleeing boat—all presented as equally valid starting points for dreaming. This emphasizes that the power to transform doesn't depend on circumstance, but on the internal act of dreaming itself. The recurring, almost mantra-like phrase, "insegniamo agli elefanti a mettere le ali" (we teach elephants to grow wings), is the core of the song's imaginative power. It’s a striking image of impossibility made manifest through collective effort and instruction. The repetition of teaching, reminding, and inviting various groups—parliaments, commanders, teachers, musicians—to "put on their wings" underscores a message of universal empowerment and the urgent need for radical change, regardless of one's perceived limitations or current role. Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they champion the transformative power of imagination and collective will. The repeated assertion that "it's never too late, we're never too old" coupled with the whimsical yet potent imagery of flight for the heaviest creatures suggests a profound optimism. It’s a call to action disguised as a lullaby, urging listeners to embrace the dream as a tool for reshaping reality and achieving the seemingly impossible.