Un Velero Llamado Libertad (part. José Luis Perales)
Carlos Rivera
Sailing on the Sea of Life: The Quest for Freedom in Carlos Rivera's Song
Carlos Rivera's rendition of 'Un Velero Llamado Libertad,' originally by José Luis Perales, is a poignant ballad that speaks to the universal desire for freedom and the pursuit of one's dreams. The song tells the story of an individual who decides to leave everything behind to sail the seas in a boat he names 'Libertad,' which means 'freedom' in Spanish. The act of naming the boat is symbolic, representing the protagonist's quest for liberation from the constraints of everyday life.
The lyrics describe a journey that is both physical and metaphorical. The protagonist's decision to 'duel with the sea' suggests a confrontation with the unknown and a willingness to face life's challenges head-on. The sea is a classic metaphor for life's journey, with its vastness representing the infinite possibilities and its unpredictability mirroring the ups and downs one experiences. The mention of gulls and the painting of wakes on the sea surface evoke a sense of exploration and the beauty found in the natural world.
However, the song also touches on the theme of return. Despite the allure of the open sea and the freedom it represents, the protagonist is drawn back by dreams and a voice asking 'How are you?' This return is met with the discovery of 'eyes as blue as the sea,' suggesting a connection with another person that is as deep and meaningful as the protagonist's connection with the sea. The song, therefore, encapsulates the tension between the desire for freedom and the human need for connection and belonging.