Valparaíso Eterno (Puerto Esperanza)

Cecilia Echeñique's song "Valparaíso Eterno (Puerto Esperanza)" is a heartfelt ode to the Chilean port city of Valparaíso. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city's unique charm and enduring spirit, capturing both its beauty and its struggles. The song opens with a hopeful vision of a future where the city's pain and sorrow are alleviated, symbolized by the wind blowing favorably and the absence of suffering on its iconic staircases. The mention of elevators no longer crying for those who left in search of forgetting suggests a longing for healing and reconciliation.

The second verse continues this theme of hope and renewal, envisioning a joyful Cerro Alegre, one of Valparaíso's famous hills, smiling and welcoming sailors returning home after long voyages. This imagery evokes a sense of community and belonging, highlighting the deep connection between the city's residents and the sea. The reference to singing a waltz amid tears and verses underscores the emotional depth and cultural richness of Valparaíso, where joy and sorrow often intertwine.

In the chorus, Echeñique celebrates Valparaíso's eternal allure, describing it as a place where even a drunken angel could sketch its streets and a magician could invent its night of lights. This whimsical portrayal emphasizes the city's magical and timeless quality. The plea for Valparaíso to share its joy and teach its innocent freedom reflects a desire to preserve the city's unique spirit and resist commercialization. The repeated refrain about not selling the April sun and sharing the madness of love encapsulates the song's central message: Valparaíso's true value lies in its authenticity, passion, and the love it inspires in those who call it home.