Guitarra Del Mesón
Joan Manuel Serrat
The Wandering Soul of the Inn's Guitar
Joan Manuel Serrat's song "Guitarra Del Mesón" paints a vivid picture of a guitar in an inn, a place where travelers from various walks of life come and go. The guitar, with its dusty strings, plays different tunes depending on who picks it up. One day it might play a jota, a traditional Spanish dance, and the next day a petenera, a melancholic flamenco style. This versatility symbolizes the guitar's role as a vessel for the diverse emotions and stories of the travelers who pass through the inn.
The guitar is described as never being a poet, yet it holds a unique soul that communicates its solitary harmony to the transient souls who encounter it. This metaphor suggests that while the guitar itself may not create poetry, it becomes a medium through which the emotions and memories of the travelers are expressed. The guitar's music resonates with the listeners, evoking dreams and memories of their homeland, providing a sense of connection and nostalgia.
Serrat's lyrics highlight the transient nature of life and the shared human experience of longing and memory. The inn's guitar serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting moments and the emotional bonds that tie us to our roots, no matter how far we travel. The song captures the essence of human connection through music, illustrating how a simple instrument can bridge the gap between different cultures and experiences, offering solace and a sense of belonging to those who hear its melodies.