Viejo Mundo

Fito Páez's 'Viejo Mundo' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, the endurance of the world amidst change, and a call for hope and transformation. The song's title, which translates to 'Old World,' suggests a contemplation of the world's history and the cyclical nature of life. Páez, an Argentine rock and roll pianist, singer-songwriter, and film director, is known for his poetic lyrics and his ability to intertwine personal and social commentary, which is evident in this song.

The lyrics paint a picture of a world that is constantly evolving, with references to the fading of stars, the shifting sands of the sea, and the bustling life in cities like Japan and Buenos Aires. Páez uses vivid imagery to describe the world's beauty and its darker sides, such as the 'black hunger' and the 'cocaine bullets' from a shotgun, hinting at social issues like poverty and drug violence. The song oscillates between these harsh realities and the artist's desire to embrace the world in its entirety, to become one with the elements and to find hope in the possibility of change.

The recurring theme of survival and the legacy left by those who have passed on suggests a deep reflection on mortality and the impact of human actions on the world. Páez expresses a desire to avoid the 'sad ceremony of mourning' and instead to love fiercely, even on 'the edge of a knife.' This metaphor could represent the risks and pain involved in truly engaging with the world's problems. Ultimately, 'Viejo Mundo' is a call to action, an encouragement to those who are alive to seize the opportunity to 'change the face of the old world,' implying that despite its age and wear, the world is still capable of renewal and beauty.