Mariposa Tecknicolor

Fito Páez, an iconic figure in Latin American rock, is known for his poetic lyrics and evocative storytelling. 'Mariposa Tecknicolor,' one of his most beloved songs, is a rich tapestry of memories and reflections on life. The song's title, which translates to 'Technicolor Butterfly,' suggests a vibrant and colorful journey, much like the transformation of a butterfly. The lyrics weave a narrative that is both personal and universal, touching on themes of time, memory, and existence.

The opening verses of 'Mariposa Tecknicolor' set a nostalgic tone, with Páez recounting the mornings of his life, the streets where he hid, and the enchantment of love. He references the sacrifices of his mothers and the shiny patent leather shoes of his youth, painting a picture of his upbringing and the cultural backdrop of his native Argentina. The mention of Sundays at the club and the cathedral's columns juxtaposed with the excitement of a soccer match captures the duality of sacred and secular life.

As the chorus unfolds, 'Todos giran y giran / Todos bajo el Sol / Se proyecta la vida / Mariposa tecknicolor,' Páez emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the continuous passage of time under the sun. The metaphor of life as a technicolor butterfly suggests that our experiences and emotions are projected in vivid, ever-changing colors. The song's later verses delve into the inevitability of change and the melancholy of existence without purpose. Yet, there's a sense of continuity and recognition, as Páez sings about knowing someone from before, carrying the lead voice, the light of the train, and a wandering destiny. The repetition of 'Y hoy solo te vuelvo a ver' (And today I only see you again) reinforces the theme of reunion and the enduring marks left on one's life by others.