De Los Pagos Del Tiempo

Almafuerte's song 'De Los Pagos Del Tiempo' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, particularly focusing on themes of time, struggle, and resilience. The lyrics, rich in metaphor and cultural references, paint a vivid picture of a journey through life's hardships and the enduring spirit required to navigate them. The phrase 'De los pagos del tiempo me he llegao' suggests a traveler arriving from the realms of time, indicating a long and arduous journey. This journey is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, as the traveler gathers 'majadas de vergüenzas cansadas'—a metaphor for weary shames or burdens—to offer a sense of relief or understanding.

The song delves into the isolation and desolation felt by those who are left to fend for themselves, as depicted in the lines 'Y en los campos de nadie pastorear, la gauchada que sola se ha quedao.' Here, the 'campos de nadie' (nobody's fields) symbolize a place of abandonment, where the 'gauchada' (a term referring to the rural people or gauchos) are left alone. The act of cutting the wire on the 'postes del hambre' (posts of hunger) signifies a rebellion against the constraints and hardships imposed by life, aiming to free those who feel trapped and cornered.

The recurring theme of destiny and its inevitable encounter is highlighted in the lines 'O en la cruz de un camino, habrá de hallarme el destino, masticándome el alma.' This imagery of destiny finding the traveler at a crossroads, 'chewing on the soul,' underscores the relentless nature of life's challenges. The song also touches on the importance of hope and perseverance, warning against the dangers of giving up ('Nunca digan que es nunca, la esperanza se trunca cuando el hombre se arruga al sufrir'). Almafuerte, known for their heavy metal and hard rock influences, often infuses their music with deep philosophical and social commentary, making 'De Los Pagos Del Tiempo' a powerful reflection on the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.