Cuatro Tablas

The song 'Cuatro Tablas' by El Encanto de Corazón, a Peruvian cumbia band, delves into themes of mortality, regret, and the finality of death. The lyrics are poignant and reflective, with the narrator speaking from the perspective of someone who is on the brink of death, addressing their loved ones and expressing a sense of acceptance of their fate. The 'cuatro tablas' or 'four boards' mentioned in the song symbolize the simplicity of a coffin, emphasizing that in death, everyone is equal, and material possessions hold no value. The repetition of this phrase underscores the inevitability of death and the stripping away of life's complexities to the bare essentials.

The song also touches on the emotional impact of death on those left behind. The narrator asks for forgiveness for past wrongs, acknowledging the pain they have caused to others. This plea for forgiveness suggests a desire for reconciliation and peace before passing away. The imagery of the family and friends mourning, accompanied by the 'cuatro hombres cargando' or 'four men carrying' the coffin, paints a vivid picture of a funeral procession, a universal ritual of saying goodbye.

El Encanto de Corazón's musical style typically features upbeat rhythms and danceable melodies, but 'Cuatro Tablas' takes on a more somber tone, reflecting the serious nature of its subject matter. The song serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of seeking forgiveness and making amends while there is still time.