Ultramar

Ciudad Jara's song 'Ultramar' is a poignant exploration of disillusionment and the yearning for freedom. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society that offers little more than frustration and confinement, symbolized by the 'arlequín' (harlequin) and the 'jaula' (cage). The protagonist expresses a desire for change and attention, to be a voice against the prevailing anger and uncertainty. However, this desire is met with a sense of personal loss, as the protagonist feels they have become a shadow of their former self, unable to perceive beauty or joy.

The imagery of the sea and the journey 'de ultramar' (overseas) serves as a powerful metaphor for escape and rebirth. The protagonist longs to be 'sacudido con tu espuma' (shaken by your foam), seeking solace and renewal in the ocean's embrace. This journey is not just a physical escape but a spiritual one, as the protagonist seeks to leave behind the 'suciedad' (filth) of society and its empty promises. The 'no muertos' (undead) waiting in the port symbolize the lingering presence of societal decay, even as the protagonist attempts to break free.

The song also touches on themes of existential confusion and the search for meaning. The 'matemática del corazón' (mathematics of the heart) and the lack of 'prácticas ni escuelas del amor' (practices or schools of love) highlight the difficulty of navigating emotions and relationships in a world that feels increasingly hollow. The protagonist's desire to 'bucear hasta escaparme' (dive until I escape) underscores a deep need to find a place where they can truly belong, free from the burdens of societal expectations and personal disillusionment.

'Ultramar' is a powerful anthem of resistance and self-discovery, capturing the struggle to find one's place in a world that often feels oppressive and unfulfilling. Through its rich metaphors and evocative imagery, Ciudad Jara invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the possibility of finding freedom beyond the confines of their current reality.