Circulo De Tiza

Carlos Varela's 'Circulo De Tiza' is a poignant reflection on the struggles and uncertainties faced by the people of Cuba, particularly those in the darker, less privileged areas of Havana. The song opens with the imagery of painting the asphalt with chalk, a metaphor for the fleeting and fragile nature of their expressions and hopes. The recurring line, 'Cuba declares the war against,' highlights the constant state of conflict and resistance that permeates their lives, though the specific enemy remains ambiguous, symbolizing a broader struggle against oppression and hardship.

Varela's lyrics delve into personal loss and disillusionment, recounting the death of a friend in the African wars and another lost to the sea while attempting to escape. These personal tragedies underscore the broader theme of loss and the high cost of conflict. The refrain, 'My religion is not of the cross, nor of the altar, but I will pray for the fog to clear one day,' suggests a yearning for clarity and peace, transcending traditional religious beliefs. This prayer for the end of the 'fog' symbolizes a desire for an end to confusion, suffering, and the pervasive sense of uncertainty.

The song also critiques the media and ideologies, expressing skepticism towards the portrayal of figures like Saddam Hussein and the promises of future ideologies. Varela's distrust in these external narratives further emphasizes the need for personal and collective clarity. The closing lines return to the image of the boys painting the asphalt, a symbol of the ongoing struggle and the hope that one day, the fog will lift, and a clearer, brighter future will emerge for the people of Havana and beyond.