Vaivén

Don Osvaldo's song 'Vaivén' delves into the oscillating nature of human existence, capturing the essence of life's constant flux. The title itself, 'Vaivén,' translates to 'sway' or 'back and forth,' setting the stage for a lyrical exploration of the highs and lows, the moments of clarity and confusion that define our lives. The song opens with vivid imagery, describing the transition from day to night and the fleeting nature of time, encapsulated in phrases like 'La vispera del mañana fue anteayer' (The eve of tomorrow was the day before yesterday). This line poetically underscores the ephemeral quality of time and the cyclical nature of our experiences.

The lyrics further explore the theme of growth and self-discovery, as seen in the lines 'Y mientras mi semilla / Me quiere conocer' (And while my seed / Wants to know me). Here, the seed symbolizes potential and the innate desire to understand oneself amidst the chaos of life. The recurring motif of 'vaivén' between 'locura-nacimiento' (madness-birth) and 'mil por qué's' (a thousand whys) reflects the internal struggle and the quest for meaning that many people face. The song poignantly captures the feeling of being trapped in one's own thoughts and emotions, seeking solace in small comforts like a cigarette to 'soportar la sensación / De estar encerrado en el temblor' (endure the sensation / Of being trapped in the tremor).

The chorus, with its repetition of 'Jueves y domingos / Esperando por vos' (Thursdays and Sundays / Waiting for you), highlights the longing for connection and the search for love and warmth. These days of the week may symbolize routine and the passage of time, emphasizing the cyclical nature of waiting and yearning. The song's exploration of being 'perdido y encontrado' (lost and found) and 'perseguido y medicado' (persecuted and medicated) speaks to the duality of human experience, where moments of clarity are often interspersed with periods of confusion and struggle. 'Vaivén' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, capturing the essence of our perpetual search for meaning and connection in a world that is constantly in motion.