Canción De Septiembre
Congreso
A Revolutionary Love: The Story of 'Canción De Septiembre'
Congreso's 'Canción De Septiembre' is a poignant narrative that intertwines themes of love, revolution, and cultural exchange. The song tells the story of a young woman and a man who meet in a university setting. She is described as beautiful and talkative, studying English, while he is a leftist who sits at the back of the class, studying French. Their initial connection is marked by his romantic gesture of leaving a red carnation and a song on her desk, symbolizing his affection and revolutionary spirit.
The lyrics delve deeper into their relationship, highlighting the blend of personal and political elements. The man gifts her 'El Manifiesto,' a significant political document, along with Beatles translations, merging their love with their shared ideals of peace and revolution. This fusion of romance and activism is a central theme, reflecting the era's spirit where personal relationships were often intertwined with political beliefs. The song captures the essence of youthful idealism and the hope for a better world through love and solidarity.
As the story progresses, the narrative takes a melancholic turn. On a rainy day, the woman runs away from home, driven by the memory of a song, 'Te Recuerdo Amanda,' a reference to Victor Jara's famous song about love and loss. The streets, once symbols of freedom, now seem to forget their promise. The couple reunites, and he kisses her in English, singing 'Girl, Don’t let me down,' a plea for enduring love amidst the turmoil. This ending underscores the enduring power of love, even in the face of societal upheaval, and the universal desire for connection and understanding.