Flores En Su Entierro

Fito Páez's song 'Flores En Su Entierro' is a poignant narrative that delves into the life and tragic end of a man who once fought against the odds but ultimately succumbed to despair. The song opens with a dedication to 'el vasco Bigarrena,' a character who had lost all battles except those of the imagination. This sets the tone for a story of a man who, despite his rebellious spirit and past glories, finds himself defeated by life's relentless challenges.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the man's final days, highlighting his sense of hopelessness and his decision to end his life. The imagery of him stealing a rope and hanging himself from a 'palo borracho' (a type of tree) is stark and powerful. The song also touches on his financial struggles, mentioning his debt and the meager possessions he left behind, including a verse by Neruda and a tattered guitar. These details add depth to his character, portraying him as a once-passionate individual who had been worn down by life's hardships.

In a bittersweet twist, the man spends his last bit of money on a luxurious bone for his dog and the best funeral wreath he could find, ensuring that there would be flowers at his burial. This act of care, even in his final moments, underscores his complex nature—a blend of defiance, tenderness, and resignation. The song concludes with a reflection on his death, likening it to a journey to a celestial neighborhood, where death, personified as a jealous woman, takes him to sleep with her forever. Through this narrative, Fito Páez captures the essence of a tragic yet profoundly human story, filled with rebellion, despair, and a touch of poetic beauty.