Volver
Il Divo
The Timeless Journey of Returning Home
Il Divo's rendition of 'Volver' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, love, and the passage of time. The song, originally a classic tango by Carlos Gardel and Alfredo Le Pera, is imbued with a deep sense of longing and reflection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's return to a place filled with memories, both joyful and painful. The 'parpadeo de las luces' (flickering of the lights) symbolizes the journey back to a familiar yet distant past, where the echoes of a first love and the quiet streets hold significant emotional weight.
The chorus, 'Volver, con la frente marchita, las nieves del tiempo platearon mi sien,' speaks to the inevitable aging process and the wisdom that comes with it. The imagery of 'las nieves del tiempo' (the snows of time) suggests the passage of years, which have left their mark on the protagonist. Despite the years that have passed, the intensity of the emotions remains undiminished. The line 'que veinte años no es nada' (that twenty years is nothing) underscores the fleeting nature of life and the enduring power of memories.
The song also delves into the fear and apprehension of confronting the past. The protagonist expresses a 'miedo del encuentro' (fear of the encounter) with memories that could resurface and disrupt their present life. Yet, there is an underlying hope, a 'humilde esperanza' (humble hope), that persists despite the ravages of time and forgetfulness. This hope is the 'fortuna de mi corazón' (fortune of my heart), a testament to the enduring power of love and memory. Il Divo's powerful vocals and emotive delivery bring these themes to life, making 'Volver' a timeless reflection on the human experience.