Tarde De Otoño En Platerías
El Consorcio
A Nostalgic Autumn Afternoon in Madrid
El Consorcio's song "Tarde De Otoño En Platerías" is a nostalgic and romantic ballad that transports listeners to a specific moment in time, capturing the essence of an autumn afternoon in Madrid. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a serene and clear autumn day, where the protagonist is enjoying a coffee at a café in Platerías. The setting is enriched with historical and cultural references, such as Alfonso XII returning from the bullfights and Julián Gayarre singing at the Royal Theatre, grounding the narrative in a specific era, likely the late 19th century.
The song's narrative revolves around a chance encounter with a beautiful woman in a gray dress, which sparks an immediate and profound emotional response in the protagonist. The lyrics convey a sense of trembling excitement and nervousness as he declares his love to her. This moment is depicted as a fleeting yet significant event, filled with the warmth of the autumn sun and the romantic ambiance of the café. The protagonist's emotions are palpable, as he experiences both the joy of love and the anxiety of waiting for his beloved.
As the day transitions into night, the protagonist's anticipation turns into despair when the woman does not arrive for their rendezvous. The gas lights growing brighter symbolize the passage of time and the deepening of his sorrow. The song concludes with the protagonist leaving the café, consumed by thoughts of the woman and the unfulfilled promise of their meeting. This poignant ending underscores the themes of longing and the ephemeral nature of love, encapsulating the bittersweet beauty of a moment that has passed but remains etched in memory.