Uno, Dos, Tres, Cuatro

Alexander Acha's song "Uno, Dos, Tres, Cuatro" is a heartfelt journey through the stages of growing up, capturing the essence of childhood and adolescence with vivid imagery and emotional depth. The song is structured in four parts, each representing a different phase of life, from early childhood to the cusp of adulthood. Acha uses simple yet evocative language to paint a picture of these formative years, making the listener reminisce about their own experiences.

In the first part, "Uno," Acha describes the innocence and simplicity of early childhood. The lyrics mention a child's first experiences, such as playing with toys, the comfort of a parent's voice, and the warmth of family life. The imagery of a "triciclo y un jersey de lana" (tricycle and a wool sweater) and a "oso tuerto" (one-eyed teddy bear) evokes a sense of nostalgia and the carefree nature of being a child.

The second part, "Dos," moves into the slightly older years of childhood, where the world starts to expand beyond the immediate family. Here, Acha talks about the small challenges and joys of this age, like getting a scrape on the knee, sibling teasing, and the excitement of a father's return home. The mention of a "piano negro de la sala" (black piano in the living room) hints at the beginning of personal interests and hobbies.

In "Tres," the song transitions into early adolescence, a time filled with new experiences and adventures. Acha sings about playing sports, listening to stories from a grandparent, and the thrill of going to the movies. The lyrics reflect a growing sense of independence and the joy of discovering the world outside the home. The mention of a "guitarra desafinada" (out-of-tune guitar) symbolizes the start of personal expression and creativity.

Finally, "Cuatro" captures the teenage years, marked by physical changes, first loves, and the search for identity. Acha touches on the awkwardness of puberty, the excitement of first parties, and the emotional turmoil of young love. The lyrics also reflect on the passage of time, with the repeated line "Y tú apenas y el tiempo vuela" (And you barely notice, and time flies) emphasizing how quickly these years pass by.

"Uno, Dos, Tres, Cuatro" is a beautiful reflection on the journey of growing up, filled with relatable moments and a sense of nostalgia that resonates with listeners of all ages. Acha's ability to capture the essence of each stage of life makes this song a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing every moment.