De Cuando Estuve Loco

Joan Manuel Serrat's song "De Cuando Estuve Loco" delves into the tumultuous experience of love and the lingering effects of a passionate, yet possibly destructive, relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has been through a period of madness, symbolized by his 'carné de majara' (madman's card) and a detailed map of hell. These metaphors suggest a time of intense emotional turmoil and chaos, where the protagonist's reality was distorted by his overwhelming feelings. The imagery of a 'sky with piranhas and leaks' further emphasizes the sense of a world turned upside down by love's intensity.

As the song progresses, the protagonist embarks on a journey 'rumbo al sur' (heading south), which can be interpreted as a quest for solace or a new beginning. This journey is driven by the memory of a lost love, as he seeks the 'spiral kisses' of his beloved. The act of leaving behind 'kilometers of outskirts' and 'red lights' symbolizes a departure from past constraints and a pursuit of freedom. The mention of 'pezones' (nipples) as a guiding compass adds a sensual and intimate layer to his quest, highlighting the deep physical and emotional connection he had with his lover.

The song also reflects on the remnants of his madness, such as 'a couple of grams of raw delirium' and the 'vice of writing love couplets on walls.' These elements indicate that while he may have moved on from the peak of his insanity, traces of it still linger, influencing his actions and thoughts. The protagonist's longing is palpable when he describes carrying his lover 'lyophilized in red envelopes' to consume in small doses during moments of solitude. This metaphor underscores the enduring impact of his past relationship and his struggle to cope with its absence. The song concludes with a sense of isolation, as he writes from a service area offering only gasoline, a stark contrast to the emotional fuel he seeks. The invitation to call him 'collect' from a corner shell suggests a desperate need for connection, even in the most mundane of places.