De Mica En Mica

Joan Manuel Serrat's song 'De Mica En Mica' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the slow passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that begins in a small, dimly lit café, where the protagonist meets a melancholic and distant gaze. This initial encounter sets the stage for a love that grows gradually, as the protagonist and his lover fill each other's lives with color and warmth. The imagery of 'reds of sunset' and 'greens of Galicia' symbolizes the vibrancy and richness that the lover brings into the protagonist's life.

As the relationship deepens, the protagonist becomes accustomed to the small, intimate details of his lover's presence—the sound of her footsteps, the way she sets the table, and the scent of her hands. These details create a sense of comfort and routine, making the eventual loss even more devastating. The lover's sudden departure, described as leaving to 'seek the sun' because the house is too dark, shatters the protagonist's world. This metaphorical search for light suggests a need for something more fulfilling or brighter than what the relationship could offer.

The aftermath of the breakup is marked by intense loneliness and a struggle to adapt to life without the lover. The protagonist's nights are filled with cold and sleeplessness, and he often finds himself lamenting by the river. However, over time, he learns to live alone, finding solace in simple routines and the hope that 'if it rains today, tomorrow will be a good day.' The song concludes with the protagonist returning to the café, reflecting on how he has gradually forgotten his lover, just as he had gradually fallen in love. This cyclical nature of love and loss, captured in the phrase 'de mica en mica' (little by little), underscores the slow, inevitable passage of time and the healing process.