Siento
Benny Ibarra
Rediscovering Breath: The Journey of Letting Go in 'Siento' by Benny Ibarra
In 'Siento,' Benny Ibarra delves into the emotional turmoil of a relationship that has reached its breaking point. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels suffocated and drained by the love that once was. The recurring theme of 'air' symbolizes the essential need for space and freedom, which has been compromised in the relationship. The protagonist feels the weight of the end approaching, losing memories and struggling with the pain that seems unhealable. This sense of finality is underscored by the repeated attempts to mend the relationship, only to find that the wounds remain open and raw.
The chorus, with its plea of 'No me robes más el aire,' highlights the desperation and the need to reclaim one's breath and life force. The heartbeats slowing down metaphorically represent the diminishing vitality and emotional exhaustion. The protagonist's request for distance is a cry for self-preservation, as the closeness of the other person brings about a 'delirio vacío'—an empty delirium that leaves the heart hollow and devoid of feeling. This emptiness is contrasted with the eventual rediscovery of breath and life, suggesting that separation, though painful, is necessary for healing and regaining one's sense of self.
As the song progresses, there is a shift from despair to a glimmer of hope. The protagonist begins to feel the air returning, symbolizing the slow but steady process of healing. The 'lento suspirar' or slow sighing signifies the gradual erasure of painful memories and the overcoming of fear. The silence of the other person becomes a source of strength, allowing the protagonist to find the courage to move on. The repeated refrain of finding breath upon distancing oneself encapsulates the central message of the song: sometimes, letting go is the only way to truly breathe and live again.