The article discusses the recent funerals of two significant political figures from Italy's First and Second Republics, exploring what their deaths reveal about the current state of Italian political culture. The author notes that these ceremonies have become a poignant reminder of political practices and ideologies that are fading into obscurity. The contrasting symbols, such as the 'Va pensiero' and the green shirts at the independentist and Padania funeral in Pontida, serve to emphasize the deep historical divide within Italian politics.

In reflecting on these events, the author illustrates how public rituals, once vibrant manifestations of political identity and community, have been reduced to mere echoes of a bygone era. The void left by these political figures reflects broader societal changes and the declining relevance of certain political movements in contemporary Italy. As these cultural symbols recede from public life, they leave behind questions about the future of political engagement in the country.

Ultimately, this narrative not only mourns the loss of these figures but also serves as a critique of the current political landscape in Italy, suggesting that what remains of these historical cultures is quickly diminishing. The implications of this decline are significant for understanding Italy's evolving political identity and the potential future dynamics of its civic life.