Periódico de Ayer

Héctor Lavoe's 'Periódico de Ayer' is a poignant metaphor for a love that has lost its relevance and vitality, much like yesterday's newspaper that no one bothers to read anymore. The song uses the lifecycle of a newspaper as an allegory for the rise and fall of a romantic relationship. Initially, the relationship is sensational and newsworthy, capturing everyone's attention, but as time passes, it becomes old news and is eventually forgotten.

The lyrics express a sense of finality and dismissal towards the past relationship. Lavoe's repeated questioning of why one would bother reading 'yesterday's newspaper' underscores the futility of revisiting a love that has clearly run its course. The song conveys a message of moving on from what is no longer useful or emotionally fulfilling. The mention of 'Radio Bemba,' which is a colloquial term for gossip or word of mouth, suggests that the relationship was publicly known and discussed, adding to the singer's desire to leave it behind.

Héctor Lavoe, known for his contributions to the salsa genre, often infused his music with personal experiences and social commentary. 'Periódico de Ayer' is a classic example of his storytelling ability, where he uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey complex emotions. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the diminishing returns of a once-passionate love, and it serves as a reminder that some chapters in life are best left closed.