Una casa nuova [English translation]

And I am alone in this new home

and inhale fresh paint and freedom,

but to go further, I must pass this test—

and, after that, what will be, will be.

If being alone is the price to pay,

happiness does not cost much.

One—for a moment, if I want to be in love

and afterwards: "Goodbye, tomorrow we'll see."

My books, which he detested,

I put them here—I do what I want.

The stereo there—the music he hated—

whenever I am in the mood, I can listen to it.

My pillows, my Indian carpets,

no longer part of a life together.

And my lights in odd places and corners—

and my bathroom without his things.

And in this house, my mind roams,

and time is mine—I own my life.

Does it really bother me to be alone?

Do my hands tremble or not?

Still the hint of a memory remains.

I feel it here, just a fleeting impression.

My ghosts, something I cannot forget—

subtle shadows like a song.

~~~~~

• Artist:Patty Pravo
• Album:Notti, guai e libertà (1998)