To be or no te vi

Buena Fe's song "To be or no te vi" delves into the philosophical and existential questions of life, blending them with cultural and social commentary. The title itself is a clever play on Shakespeare's famous line "To be or not to be," but it shifts the focus to a more personal and immediate concern: "te ví o no te ví" (I saw you or I didn't see you). This shift from a universal existential dilemma to a personal, relational one sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing the importance of human connections and experiences over abstract contemplation.

The lyrics explore the transient nature of life, starting with the imagery of dust, which symbolizes both our origins and our ultimate fate. This cyclical view of existence is contrasted with the immediate concerns of time and money, described as being in a perpetual marriage. The reference to Van Gogh's cry from the asylum serves as a poignant reminder of the thin line between genius and madness, and how both can be perceived through the lenses of sensibility and insensibility. The song encourages listeners to break free from societal constraints, to live intensely, and to embrace both the mind and the soul.

Cultural references are abundant, particularly in the mention of Compay Segundo, a legendary Cuban musician. This not only grounds the song in its Cuban roots but also serves as a metaphor for resilience and transformation. The imagery of a seagull, whether in full sunlight or in the shadows, symbolizes the enduring spirit that transcends circumstances. The song ultimately calls for a balance between the industriousness of an ant and the carefree nature of a cicada, urging listeners to live fully and authentically.

The song's message is clear: life is not just about being or not being; it's about seeing and being seen, experiencing and connecting. It's a call to action to live life with intensity and purpose, to break free from the mundane, and to cherish the moments and people that make life meaningful.