And so finally, I set foot in Sorrento, the inspiration of the Neapolitan song, “Torna a Surriento”. This charming song, one of the most famous works of the Neapolitan genre, composed in 1894 by Italian musician Ernesto De Curtis. His brother, the poet and painter Giambattista De Curtis, wrote the lyrics.
Many singers have given their rendition of “Torna a Surriento.” Orchestras and instrumental soloists have done the same. I enjoy playing the song on my classical guitar. However, the Italian voice singing the music is the most evocative – especially the version by Ernesto Pavarotti.
“Torna a Surriento” means to come back to Sorrento. The lyrics entice visitors to go back and revisit Sorrento. Sorrento is a charming and fascinating place where I stayed for eight days (of the 23 days during my slow travel in the Bay of Naples). But would I fall for her charm and return? The answer is probably not. I am getting on, and other places are bidding me go forth. However, for those who have not been to the Bay of Naples, I highly recommend a longish stay. It will be an unforgettable lifetime experience.
The opening stanza, “Look at the sea, how beautiful it is, it inspires so many emotions” accurately sums up what you will see and feel. The coastal view is as charming and as moving as the music and lyrics of the song.
English translation (“Come Back to Sorrento”)
Look at the sea, how beautiful it is,
it inspires so many emotions,
like you do with the people you look at,
who you make to dream while they are still awake.
Look at this garden
and the scent of these oranges,
such a fine perfume,
it goes straight into your heart,
And you say: “I am leaving, goodbye.”
You go away from this heart of mine,
away from this land of love,
And have you the heart not to come back?
But do not leave me,
do not give me this torment.
Come back to Surriento,
make me live!
Look at the sea of Surriento,
what a treasure it is!
Even who has travelled all over the world,
has never seen a sea like this one.
Look at these mermaids
that stare, amazed, at you,
that love you so much.
They would like to kiss you,
And you say: “I am leaving, goodbye.”
You go away from my heart,
away from the land of love,
And have you the heart not to come back?
But please do not leave me,
do not give me this torment.
Come back to Surriento,
make me live!