Rodari's "Promemoria": Ghali & Winter Olympics Poem

The verses of Gianni Rodari’s Promemoria, penned by a celebrated author known for addressing young audiences with both simplicity and radicalism, were recited by Ghali during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Italian, French, and English. This performance sparked a powerful reflection on the rejection of war.

A Poetic Statement at the Olympics

The choreography accompanying the recitation, performed by a cast entirely under the age of 20, evolved alongside the music and words. Beginning as a human mountain where bodies supported and embraced one another, the performance culminated in the formation of a dove – a universally recognised symbol of peace.

The Enduring Message of Promemoria

Promemoria outlines fundamental values – peace, solidarity, and respect – and transforms them into a universal call for collective responsibility. The poem resonates with the core spirit of the Olympic Games, reminding us that peace is not an abstract idea, but a daily commitment shared by people and generations.

Did You Know? Gianni Rodari, the author of Promemoria, was an Italian writer, poet, and educator active in the 20th century, known for using imagination to promote civic engagement.

The text of Promemoria reads:

Ci sono cose da fare ogni giorno:
lavarsi, studiare, giocare,
preparare la tavola,
a mezzogiorno.
Ci sono cose da fare di notte:
chiudere gli occhi, dormire,
avere sogni da sognare,
orecchie per non sentire.
Ci sono cose da non fare mai,
né di giorno né di notte,
né per mare né per terra:
per esempio, la guerra

An English translation of the text is:

Notice things to be done each day:
like wash and read and play
and set the table
at midday.
There are things to be done each night:
close your eyes, go to sleep,
have dreams for dreaming,
have ears for not hearing.
There are things you must never do,
not by day nor by night
not by sea nor by shore:
for example WAR

(Translation by Richard Dixon)

Expert Insight: The inclusion of Rodari’s work in such a prominent international event underscores the enduring power of art to convey messages of peace and social responsibility, particularly to younger generations.

Looking Ahead

The use of Rodari’s poem at the Olympics could inspire similar artistic expressions at future international events. We see also possible that this performance will encourage further exploration of Rodari’s work and its themes of peace and social justice. The impact of this artistic statement may extend beyond the immediate event, potentially fostering dialogue and reflection on the importance of peace in a global context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who recited the poem Promemoria at the Olympics?

Ghali recited the poem Promemoria at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

In what languages was the poem recited?

The poem was recited in Italian, French, and English.

What does Promemoria primarily address?

Promemoria primarily addresses the rejection of war and promotes values such as peace, solidarity, and respect.

How might art influence global conversations about peace and conflict?

Rodari’s “Promemoria”: Ghali & Winter Olympics Poem