Alli

Ismael Serrano's song 'Alli' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia and the longing to return to the simplicity and innocence of childhood. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a place filled with memories, where the singer wishes to return. This place, referred to as 'Alli' (there), is a metaphor for the past, a time when life was simpler and filled with wonder. The singer reflects on the things left behind, the innocence of childhood games, and the mysteries of growing up.

The song delves into the bittersweet nature of memory. Serrano reminisces about chasing after a girl, learning about life, and the playful yet profound experiences of youth. The mention of 'a universe and a toy prison' symbolizes the boundless imagination and the small constraints of childhood. The lyrics also touch on the educational experiences, with the line 'Señor Serrano: a la pizarra' (Mr. Serrano: to the blackboard) evoking the formal yet formative school days. The imperfect past tense of the verb 'to love' signifies the early, unrefined understanding of emotions and relationships.

As the song progresses, there is a sense of loss and change. The singer laments the forgotten toys and the transformation of the neighborhood, now unrecognizable due to urban development. The 'horrorosos monstruos fantasmas' (horrible ghostly monsters) that once seemed sweet compared to the current fears highlight the shift from childhood fears to adult anxieties. The longing to escape through the window and the change in the size of the windows symbolize the loss of freedom and perspective that comes with growing up. The song ends on a melancholic note, with the singer barely looking out of the now larger windows, signifying a disconnection from the past and a loss of the childlike wonder.