Los Atajos

Francis Cabrel's song 'Los Atajos' is a poetic exploration of two individuals who find each other while wandering through life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their journey, marked by a sense of aimlessness and serendipity. The opening lines, 'Yo caminaba sin mirar / Tu sólo mirabas sin caminar,' suggest a meeting of two souls who are lost in their own ways but find a connection through their shared experiences. The imagery of each person with their guitar and silence highlights their individuality and the personal baggage they carry.

The song delves into themes of escape and the search for meaning. The line 'Dijiste tú cuando no hay sentimientos / Las mariposas van detrás del viento' reflects a sense of disillusionment with conventional paths and emotions. The protagonists choose to take random paths, 'Tomemos un camino al azar,' symbolizing their desire to break free from societal expectations and find their own way. The recurring motif of leaving the city behind and moving 'de puente en puente' under a 'luna gris' emphasizes their quest for freedom and the transient nature of their journey.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that their journey is not without challenges. They face obstacles like 'perros a morder' and 'alguna piedra,' yet their bond and determination keep them moving forward. The repeated refrain of leaving the city and listening to 'las notas de la tierra en las botas' underlines their connection to the earth and each other. 'Los Atajos' is a beautiful metaphor for life's unpredictable paths and the importance of companionship and resilience in navigating them.