Desiderata
Arturo Benavides
Embracing Serenity and Self-Acceptance: An Analysis of 'Desiderata'
The song 'Desiderata' by Arturo Benavides is a spoken-word track that delivers a powerful message of peace, self-acceptance, and the importance of living a life of integrity and serenity. The lyrics, which are a recitation of the prose poem 'Desiderata' by Max Ehrmann, offer guidance on how to navigate the complexities of life while maintaining inner peace and a positive outlook.
The opening lines encourage the listener to find tranquility amidst chaos and to value silence. The song advises maintaining good relationships and speaking one's truth calmly, while also being open to listening to others, regardless of their perceived wisdom. This reflects a deep respect for the individual journey of every person. The lyrics caution against the pitfalls of comparison and the disturbance caused by loud and aggressive individuals, suggesting that such attitudes can harm one's spirit.
A recurring theme in the song is the affirmation of the listener's place in the universe, emphasizing that everyone has a right to exist and that the universe is unfolding as it should. This serves as a comforting reminder of one's worth and the natural order of life. The song also touches on the importance of enjoying one's achievements, being cautious in business, and remaining open to the goodness in the world. It calls for authenticity, especially in love, and advises acceptance of aging and the cultivation of resilience. The closing lines of the song reiterate the need for peace with oneself and with whatever conception of God one may have, and despite life's challenges, it asserts that the world remains a beautiful place worth striving for happiness in.