Diciembre 22

Javier Blake's "Diciembre 22" is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, loss, and the passage of time. The song begins with the protagonist returning home for Christmas, a time traditionally associated with warmth and family. However, the lyrics quickly reveal a sense of melancholy as the protagonist reflects on personal changes and heartbreak. The mention of being thinner and having something to share suggests a burden of emotional weight, hinting at the struggles faced since the last visit home.

The song delves deeper into the theme of loss with the reference to the protagonist's father, whose absence is felt through the lingering scent of his cologne in the old truck. This imagery evokes a powerful sense of longing and the impact of parental influence, as the protagonist acknowledges inheriting both the father's tastes and flaws. The narrative then shifts to a reunion with an old friend, Juanjo, who shares his own tale of hardship, having recently been released from prison. This encounter underscores the harsh realities faced by those in their community, where dreams are stifled, and the past is filled with both camaraderie and tragedy.

Blake's lyrics also touch on the universal theme of life's unpredictability, encapsulated in the phrase "Cuenta a Dios tus planes y reirá" (Tell God your plans and He will laugh). This line reflects the futility of making plans in a world where circumstances often dictate otherwise. The song concludes with a bittersweet acknowledgment that while nothing remains the same, there is a comforting notion that one can always return to places of past happiness, even if only in memory.