Crimen
Gustavo Cerati
Unraveling the Heartache in Gustavo Cerati's 'Crimen'
Gustavo Cerati's song 'Crimen' is a poignant exploration of loss and the emotional aftermath of a relationship's end. The lyrics convey a deep sense of exhaustion and resignation, as the speaker reflects on the absence of a loved one and the impact it has had on them. The repeated phrase 'La espera me agotó' (The wait has exhausted me) sets the tone for a narrative of longing and the struggle to move on. The imagery of lying down 'en llamas' (in flames) and a 'lento degradé' (slow fade) suggests a slow-burning pain and the gradual realization that the relationship is truly over.
The song's chorus, 'Que otra cosa puedo hacer / Si no olvido moriré' (What else can I do / If I don't forget I'll die), captures the desperation and the sense of being trapped by memories. The metaphor of the relationship's end as an 'otro crimen' (another crime) that remains 'sin resolver' (unsolved) adds a layer of mystery and unresolved tension, implying that the emotional turmoil is like a case that cannot be closed. This metaphor could also suggest feelings of injustice or betrayal, as if the end of the relationship was an act that left a permanent mark on the speaker's life.
Cerati, known for his poetic lyrics and his role as the frontman of the legendary rock band Soda Stereo, often infused his music with deep emotional resonance. 'Crimen' is no exception, as it delves into themes of love, loss, and the difficulty of letting go. The song's haunting melody and Cerati's evocative voice amplify the sense of melancholy and introspection, making 'Crimen' a powerful anthem for those who have experienced the pain of a love that has slipped away.