El Tiempo no Para
Fabiana Cantilo
Defiance in the Face of Time: Fabiana Cantilo's 'El Tiempo no Para'
Fabiana Cantilo's 'El Tiempo no Para' is a powerful anthem of resistance and resilience. The song opens with vivid imagery, as the narrator describes shooting against the sun with the force of a sunset, symbolizing a struggle against overwhelming odds. The mention of a machine gun filled with magic suggests a blend of aggression and hope, a fight that is both fierce and enchanted. Despite feeling like just another face in the crowd, the narrator's determination shines through, emphasizing that they are not defeated and will continue to fight because time does not stop.
The lyrics also delve into social and political commentary. Cantilo criticizes those in power, accusing them of destroying the country for profit while labeling the common people as thieves and drug addicts. This stark contrast highlights the hypocrisy and corruption of the ruling class. The line 'your head is full of rats' suggests that the masses have been deceived and manipulated, buying into the lies and false promises of those in power. Yet, despite this bleak outlook, the song's refrain reminds us that time marches on, and with it, the possibility of change.
Cantilo's reflection on the cyclical nature of history adds another layer of depth to the song. She sees the future repeating the past, a 'museum of great novelties,' indicating that while time moves forward, the same patterns and mistakes recur. This perspective underscores the importance of learning from history to break the cycle. 'El Tiempo no Para' is a call to remain vigilant and persistent, to continue fighting against injustice and corruption, and to hold onto hope even when the odds seem insurmountable.