At the core of the Sicilian saying Livàrisi ‘u tistàli – ‘unleashing the browband of the horse’ – is the extremely vivid image of a horse that is let off the reins. The message is that uncontrolled expression carries the gasp of freedom. In human terms, it describes our desire and sometimes the necessity to run free. Our ability to unhinge. And yet, at the same time, it reminds us of the risk of not having any control or direction as we take off.
Livàrisi ‘u tistàli
‘unleashing the browband of the horse’
Livàrisi ‘u tistàli is a tangibly sensory image of the love affair with liberty, while also capturing the civilising force of constraint. It holds in its logical poetry an embodiment of the totality of the Sicilian spirit: a passionate, free and yet always at risk of becoming terrorised by derangement. It’s the unconfined ecstasy of living in the field, racing full throttle, without anybody telling us what to do. It’s primal. Unbridled. Sicilian.
Authentic Sicilian ingredients, delivered to your door
Shop Bronte pistachios, artisan pasta, extra virgin olive oil and more on Dolceterra.com — use code SICILIANFOODCULTURE10 for 10% off your order.
If you enjoyed this article, consider supporting us with a small donation — it helps keep the site running!
Buy us a Cannolo!
I look forward to the Sicilian food culture monthly post, especially the Sicilian sayings.
I would appreciate guide to correctly pronounce the Sicilian words.
Thank you for a great web page.
It also means to “take off your booths.