Un Salto Adelante

Jerry Velázquez's song "Un Salto Adelante" delves into the life of a young man who has been forced into a life of thievery and cunning to survive. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who must constantly stay one step ahead of danger and societal judgment. The opening lines, "Tengo que saltar, tomar la ventaja / Rehuir la espada mortal," set the tone for a life lived on the edge, where every decision is a matter of survival. The protagonist is not just stealing for the thrill but out of necessity, as emphasized by the line, "Como por vivir, robo por comer." This line underscores the harsh reality that his actions are driven by the basic need to eat and survive, rather than any inherent malice or desire for wealth.

The song also touches on themes of social ostracism and the judgment that comes with living a life outside the law. The protagonist is labeled with derogatory terms like "¡Rata! ¡Pillo! ¡Vago!" which reflect society's disdain for those who live on the fringes. Despite this, there is a sense of resilience and defiance in the character. He acknowledges the pain and loneliness of his existence, admitting, "Que solo tenía un amigo, ¡Dios!" This line reveals a deep sense of isolation, yet also a reliance on a higher power or inner strength to keep going.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of evasion and escape. The protagonist is constantly on the move, dodging those who seek to capture him and finding solace in the act of running away. The closing lines, "Y si desean buen aterrizaje / Solo tengo que saltar," encapsulate this sense of perpetual motion and the hope that one day, he might find a safe landing. The song is a poignant exploration of the lengths one must go to survive in a world that is often unforgiving and harsh, highlighting both the struggles and the indomitable spirit of those who live on the margins of society.