Afiche

Adriana Varela's song 'Afiche' delves deep into the themes of lost love, disillusionment, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the harsh realities of a love that has faded away. The repeated mention of the 'cartel' and 'afiche' (poster) serves as a metaphor for the commercialization and superficiality of emotions in modern society. The protagonist feels as though their love and youth have been sold off, leaving them with nothing but a sense of betrayal and loss.

The imagery in the song is striking, with references to the night, the air, and the changing seasons, symbolizing the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The line 'dan ganas de balearse en un rincón' (it makes you want to shoot yourself in a corner) is a powerful expression of the depth of despair and hopelessness felt by the protagonist. This raw emotion is further emphasized by the repetition of the phrase, highlighting the cyclical nature of their pain.

The song also touches on the theme of sacrifice, with the protagonist lamenting how they gave everything for their love, only to be left with nothing. The line 'Yo te di un hogar, siempre fui pobre pero yo te di un hogar' (I gave you a home, I was always poor but I gave you a home) underscores the depth of their commitment and the ultimate futility of their efforts. The metaphor of 'un desnudo de vidriera' (a shop window nude) suggests that the loved one has become an object, something to be seen and desired by all, but ultimately unattainable and devoid of true connection.

'Afiche' is a poignant exploration of the pain of lost love and the harsh realities of life. It captures the essence of tango, a genre known for its melancholic and introspective themes, and showcases Adriana Varela's ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful voice and evocative lyrics.