While the lyrics to this song are rather plaintive, the quick-paced,

lilting melody contradict them, making the song's effect quite cheerful.

While the singer complains of his solitary heart, declaring that

his "chitarra romana" (Roman guitar) is his only companion, it seems

clear that he is stating this for dramatic effect.

The accompaniment imitates the strumming of a guitar, and the vocal lines

are reminiscent of many of the lighter serenades of Italian folk music.

"Under a cloak of stars, Rome seems beautiful to me. My solitary heart,

disillusioned by love, wants to sing in the shadows. A silent fountain,

and a balcony above, oh, Roman guitar, accompany me! Sing, sing, my

guitar, let my heart weep. With no home and no love, you are all

I have left. If my voice is a little veiled, soften your music, my

lovely Fornaria is no longer on the balcony! The shores sleep while the

river flows. I follow it because it pulls me along with it, and carries

my heart. I see a far off shadow, and a star up there, oh, Roman guitar,

accompany me!"

© Anne Feeney, Rovi