Solíamos terminar en vuelos
Don Lunfardo Y El Señor Otario
Navigating Love and Despair in 'Solíamos terminar en vuelos'
Don Lunfardo Y El Señor Otario's song 'Solíamos terminar en vuelos' is a poetic exploration of love, longing, and existential despair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that is both intoxicating and suffocating. The imagery of floating together on a 'descolorida' (faded) corner suggests a sense of nostalgia and decay, while the mention of 'almendra y cielo' (almond and sky) fingers evokes a delicate, almost ethereal connection. However, the line 'bajar es lo peor' (coming down is the worst) hints at the inevitable crash that follows the high of their union.
The recurring motif of being 'esclavizada a vos, encadenada a vos' (enslaved to you, chained to you) underscores the paradox of their relationship. It is described as an 'orgasmo eterno y cruel' (eternal and cruel orgasm), suggesting a pleasure that is inextricably linked with pain. This duality is further emphasized by the protagonist's sense of blindness and desperation, as he describes himself as a 'ciego mendigabesos' (blind beggar of kisses) who can only grasp the vapor of a body he can never fully possess. The metaphor of a 'balsa de cemento' (cement raft) highlights the futility and weight of his attempts to navigate this emotional landscape.
The song also delves into themes of existential dread and societal decay. The repeated reference to 'General Paz,' a major avenue in Buenos Aires, serves as a metaphorical boundary for the protagonist's emotional and psychological state. The 'naufragio sin mar' (shipwreck without sea) symbolizes a sense of being lost and adrift in a familiar yet alien environment. The mention of 'roedores' (rodents) and the 'ironía de los dioses' (irony of the gods) giving them 'los ojos de Borges' (the eyes of Borges) adds a layer of cultural and philosophical depth, alluding to the famous Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges, known for his themes of labyrinths and existential puzzles.
In the end, the song leaves us with a haunting question: '¿Hasta dónde te permitís volar?' (How far do you allow yourself to fly?). This line encapsulates the tension between the desire for freedom and the chains of reality, making 'Solíamos terminar en vuelos' a poignant reflection on the complexities of love and existence.