Polca Mazurca
El Guincho
The Everlasting Echoes of Memory in 'Polca Mazurca'
El Guincho's 'Polca Mazurca' is a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion, weaving together themes of memory, change, and the enduring nature of music. The song opens with a vivid description of a shirt adorned with dragons, symbolizing a complex and perhaps tumultuous relationship. The mention of large fish eating smaller ones hints at the power dynamics and inevitable changes that occur in life and relationships. The reference to 'isla chica o capitales' (small island or capitals) suggests that no matter where one is, there are always boundaries and shores to navigate, both literally and metaphorically.
The lyrics convey a sense of impermanence and the transient nature of human connections. The line 'porque si me marcho nunca es para siempre' (because if I leave, it's never forever) speaks to the cyclical nature of departures and returns, emphasizing that even when people part ways, the memories and melodies they shared remain. This is further underscored by the mention of Benny and Generoso, likely referring to Benny Moré and Generoso Jiménez, iconic figures in Cuban music, whose songs continue to resonate long after their time.
The song also touches on the theme of artistic expression and its evolution. The narrator reflects on how their partner has changed, both in appearance and in their creative endeavors, now drawing on walls with chalk. Despite the changes and the passage of time, the narrator continues to create, even if imperfectly, highlighting the persistence of artistic spirit. The recurring refrain about melodies that remain serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of art and music, even as people and circumstances change.