Guitarra de Los Boliches

Horacio Guarany's song "Guitarra de Los Boliches" is a heartfelt tribute to the humble guitar and the life of the struggling musician. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a worn-out guitar, with its six strings and a fourth string on the verge of breaking, symbolizing the wear and tear of a life spent in bars and taverns. The guitar becomes an extension of the musician, who passionately plays it amidst the clinking of glasses and the applause of a modest audience. This imagery highlights the intimate relationship between the musician and his instrument, where the thumb becomes the conductor of an orchestra, bringing music to life in the most unassuming places.

The song delves deeper into the hardships faced by these musicians, who fight for their daily wages night after night in the dimly lit stages of cantinas and bodegones. The lyrics evoke a sense of camaraderie among the musicians and their patrons, who share the long nights and early mornings together. The mention of the "barra del boliche" and the extended speeches of those nearing the end of their journey adds a layer of melancholy, reflecting the transient nature of their lives and dreams.

As the song progresses, it follows the old guitarist, who dreams of a better future while walking through the streets with his beloved guitar under his arm. The imagery of the black hat and the smoking cigarette adds a touch of nostalgia and resilience. Despite the passage of time, the guitarist remains hopeful that his dreams will one day come true. The final verses bring a poignant closure, as the musician and his guitar retire to a modest pension, singing a lullaby to each other. The song ends with a wish that the guitar, adorned with a rose, will always welcome those who play it, regardless of their ability to tune it perfectly, symbolizing the inclusivity and enduring spirit of music.