El Hombre y El Agua

Joan Manuel Serrat's song "El Hombre y El Agua" is a poetic exploration of the intrinsic relationship between humanity and water. Through a series of metaphors, Serrat illustrates how water is not just a physical necessity but a profound element that shapes human existence. The lyrics compare various aspects of human life to water, suggesting that while man is transient and momentary, water is eternal and omnipresent. For instance, if man is a gesture, water is history; if man is a dream, water is the direction. This juxtaposition emphasizes the timeless and essential nature of water in contrast to the fleeting nature of human life.

The song also delves into the nurturing and life-giving properties of water. Serrat sings, "Si el hombre está vivo, el agua es la vida," which translates to "If man is alive, water is life." This line underscores the fundamental role of water in sustaining life. The imagery of water as a child’s playground in Paris further adds a layer of innocence and joy, highlighting water's role in human happiness and growth. The repeated call to care for water as it cares for us serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect this vital resource.

Serrat's lyrics also celebrate the dynamic and transformative qualities of water. Descriptions of water as a river, foam, rain, mist, cloud, fountain, ice, and sea paint a vivid picture of its various forms and movements. The song acknowledges water's power to shape landscapes, move mills, and even quench fire, illustrating its immense influence on the natural world. The line "Agua que estás en los cielos como en la tierra" (Water that is in the heavens as on earth) encapsulates the omnipresence of water, reinforcing its sacred and universal significance. Through this lyrical journey, Serrat invites listeners to reflect on the profound and multifaceted relationship between man and water, urging a deeper appreciation and stewardship of this essential element.