Si Las Calles Pudieran Hablar
Amaral
The Silent Stories of the Streets: A Tale of Love and Loss
Amaral's song "Si Las Calles Pudieran Hablar" delves into the poignant and often hidden stories that unfold in the urban landscape. The narrative centers around a girl from an affluent neighborhood and a boy from the southern part of the city, whose paths cross one fateful night. Their brief encounter, marked by vulnerability and a sense of fleeting connection, is encapsulated in the image of them sleeping in a doorway. The girl, described as someone who indulges in self-destructive behavior, is portrayed as a complex character whose pain and struggles are not easily visible to the outside world.
The lyrics emphasize the girl's enigmatic nature, suggesting that her true self is hidden behind a facade. The line "No me digas que la conoces si nunca la has visto llorar" (Don't tell me you know her if you've never seen her cry) underscores the idea that her deepest emotions and scars are kept private. This secrecy is further highlighted by her reluctance to show her arms, possibly hinting at self-harm or other forms of hidden suffering. The boy's lingering memory of her and his continued search for someone like her speaks to the lasting impact of their brief encounter and the deep impression she left on him.
The song also touches on the theme of urban legends and the untold stories that the streets hold. The title itself, "Si Las Calles Pudieran Hablar" (If the Streets Could Talk), suggests that there are countless hidden narratives and truths that remain unspoken. The streets, if they could speak, would reveal the harsh realities and the blurred lines between myth and reality. The girl's memory, described as "humo" (smoke) among beer cans, evokes a sense of ephemeral and melancholic beauty, while her "ojos de gacela" (gazelle eyes) convey a deep, infinite sadness. Amaral's evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of love, loss, and the hidden struggles that define the human experience.