El Metro

Café Tacvba's song 'El Metro' delves into the surreal and existential experience of being trapped in a subway system. The protagonist finds himself unable to escape the confines of a metro car, symbolizing a deeper sense of entrapment and disconnection from the outside world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his life underground, where he has been living for months, crossing stations like Zócalo, Hidalgo, and Chabacano countless times. This repetitive journey underscores a feeling of stagnation and the futility of his attempts to break free, as he is constantly pushed back inside by the crowd.

The song also explores themes of memory and longing. The protagonist reflects on a loved one, knowing that they remember him, but he is uncertain if he will ever reunite with them. This sense of isolation is compounded by his deteriorating physical state—his hair and beard have grown, and he has lost track of time, unable to distinguish between day and night. The accumulation of mundane items like candies, needles, and lighters highlights the monotony and absurdity of his existence.

In the chorus, the protagonist's yearning for his loved one becomes more poignant. He misses them deeply, to the point where he can no longer recall their face, and he doubts if he will ever kiss them again. This emotional turmoil adds a layer of melancholy to the song, making 'El Metro' a powerful commentary on the human condition, the passage of time, and the struggle to maintain connections in an increasingly isolating world.