Qué Andarás Haciendo
Ismael Serrano
Longing and Reflection in Ismael Serrano's 'Qué Andarás Haciendo'
Ismael Serrano's song 'Qué Andarás Haciendo' is a poignant exploration of longing and reflection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person wondering about the daily activities of a loved one who is no longer present. The repeated question, 'Qué andarás haciendo ahora' ('What are you doing now'), serves as a refrain that underscores the speaker's deep sense of curiosity and yearning. This question is not just about the physical actions of the loved one but also about their emotional state and well-being.
The song is rich with imagery and metaphors that convey a sense of absence and nostalgia. For instance, the lines 'dibujando constelaciones en los huecos de los cuadros que aún faltan por colgar' ('drawing constellations in the gaps of the pictures that are yet to be hung') suggest a sense of incompleteness and the passage of time. Similarly, the mention of 'probándote quizá un vestido nuevo, planeando una huida, ver el mar' ('maybe trying on a new dress, planning an escape, to see the sea') evokes a sense of longing for freedom and new experiences.
The speaker's own actions, such as 'afilando lunas, perdido en el hotel' ('sharpening moons, lost in the hotel') and 'buscándote en el espejo azul del baño' ('looking for you in the blue mirror of the bathroom'), highlight their deep sense of loss and the ways they try to cope with it. These actions are symbolic of the speaker's attempts to hold on to memories and find solace in familiar routines. The song beautifully captures the emotional complexity of missing someone, blending mundane activities with profound emotional undertones.
The cultural context of the song also adds layers to its meaning. Ismael Serrano is known for his introspective and poetic lyrics, often touching on themes of love, loss, and social issues. His musical style, which blends folk and contemporary influences, creates a melancholic yet comforting atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners. 'Qué Andarás Haciendo' is a testament to Serrano's ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet evocative language.