Cómo Pasa El Tiempo
El Cuarteto de Nos
The Relentless March of Time: An Analysis of 'Cómo Pasa El Tiempo' by El Cuarteto de Nos
El Cuarteto de Nos, a band known for their clever lyrics and rock influence, delves into the philosophical realm with their song 'Cómo Pasa El Tiempo' ('How Time Passes'). The song grapples with the concept of time, its inexorable flow, and the human experience of it. The lyrics personify time, suggesting it has a will of its own, one that humans cannot control or escape. The opening lines introduce the idea that time and forgetting are 'twin brothers,' indicating that as time passes, memories fade. The song's narrator insists on valuing each day, not as a countdown but as a treasure, emphasizing the common saying that 'time is money.'
The song continues to explore the dual nature of time, describing it as both a healer of inconsequential wounds and a relentless god that does not forgive sins. The references to Saturn and Cronos, both figures associated with time in mythology, underscore the inevitability of aging and change. The lyrics suggest that leaving a lasting impact is more valuable than longevity itself. The chorus reflects on the paradox of time moving both quickly and slowly, and the urgency of living in the present, as time waits for no one. The narrator rejects the idea of using time as an excuse for failure, instead acknowledging that it is a force that can either be harnessed or lost.
In the final verses, the song criticizes the human tendency to blame time for our problems and our paradoxical desire for immortality despite often wasting the time we have. The metaphor of killing the rooster to stop the dawn illustrates the futility of trying to halt the passage of time. Ultimately, 'Cómo Pasa El Tiempo' is a reflection on the importance of seizing the moment, recognizing the value of time, and living with intentionality, rather than being a passive victim to time's flight.