Cafe para Platón

Fernando Ubiergo's song 'Cafe para Platón' is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of idealism, loss, and the pursuit of peace. The song tells the story of a student who abruptly leaves university, abandoning his studies much like a half-smoked cigarette. This student, who often asked for 'a coffee for Plato' and some change for transportation, is portrayed as someone who, despite having nothing material, possessed a richness of spirit and ideals that surpassed the narrator's own. The reference to Plato, a philosopher known for his ideas on ideal forms and the pursuit of truth, underscores the student's philosophical nature and his quest for deeper meaning in life.

The chorus reflects a sense of longing and curiosity about the student's whereabouts, imagining him discussing peace with Plato. This highlights the student's belief that peace is an elusive concept, slipping through humanity's fingers despite efforts to grasp it. The imagery of trying to unite many hands to achieve peace suggests the complexity and difficulty of this endeavor. The song paints a picture of a world that continues to spin in chaos, while the student, driven by faith and idealism, sought to change it.

The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the repeated mention of the 'coffee for Plato' that eventually goes cold, symbolizing the student's departure and the end of his idealistic pursuits. The final lines of the song reflect a sense of loss and nostalgia, as the narrator acknowledges that no one asks for a 'coffee for Plato' anymore because the student is gone. This serves as a metaphor for the fading of idealism and the harsh reality that often extinguishes youthful dreams and aspirations.