Altar

In 'Altar,' Gustavo Cerati delves into a deeply introspective and spiritual journey, exploring themes of self-discovery, inner peace, and the transcendence of time. The song opens with the line 'Suena como el viento y decidí borrar el tiempo,' which translates to 'It sounds like the wind and I decided to erase time.' This metaphor suggests a desire to transcend the constraints of time and live in the present moment, a common theme in spiritual and meditative practices. By declaring 'Soy mi propio altar,' or 'I am my own altar,' Cerati emphasizes self-reliance and the sanctity of the self, suggesting that true peace and fulfillment come from within.

The lyrics also touch on the value of silence and the rejection of superficiality. Phrases like 'Harto del sarcasmo sube el precio del silencio' ('Tired of sarcasm, the price of silence rises') highlight a yearning for genuine, meaningful experiences over empty words and sarcasm. This sentiment is further reinforced by the line 'Toda frase hecha,' which means 'Every cliché,' indicating a rejection of trite expressions and a search for deeper truths. The repetition of 'Soy mi propio altar' serves as a mantra, reinforcing the idea of self-worship and inner strength.

Cerati's exploration of emptiness and fulfillment is evident in lines like 'Si hay algo desierto, es que hay algo de cierto' ('If there is something deserted, it is because there is something true'). This paradoxical statement suggests that emptiness can reveal deeper truths and that acknowledging one's inner void can lead to spiritual enlightenment. The song concludes with a sense of renewal and clarity, as Cerati sings about a 'fuerte resplandor' ('strong glow') emerging from within, symbolizing a newfound inner light and peace. 'Altar' is a profound meditation on the importance of self-awareness, the power of silence, and the journey toward inner harmony.