Allá Viene Un Corazón

Inti-Illimani's song "Allá Viene Un Corazón" is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and the passage of time. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of melancholy and introspection, as the narrator reflects on their emotional state and the reasons behind their heartache. The repeated phrase "corazón" (heart) serves as a central motif, symbolizing both the source of the narrator's pain and the object of their longing. The line "que tengo el pecho maluco" (my chest is in pain) suggests a deep, almost physical suffering caused by emotional turmoil.

The song's narrative unfolds through a series of vivid metaphors and imagery. The mention of eating the wings of a "pataruco" (a type of bird) could symbolize a self-inflicted wound or a mistake that has led to the narrator's current state of distress. This act of consumption might represent a moment of weakness or a decision that has had lasting negative consequences. The subsequent lines about the brave singing at one o'clock and the coward singing at two o'clock introduce a theme of courage and timeliness, with the narrator lamenting their own tardiness and missed opportunities by singing at three o'clock.

The final verses paint a serene yet sorrowful picture of the narrator by the riverbank, under the shade of a laurel tree. This setting evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, as the flowing waters remind the narrator of a loved one. The imagery of the river and the laurel tree, both symbols of life and continuity, contrasts with the narrator's feelings of regret and missed chances. Through these evocative lyrics, Inti-Illimani captures the universal experience of love, loss, and the enduring hope for reconciliation.