En Coulliure

Joan Manuel Serrat's song 'En Coulliure' is a deeply evocative piece that delves into themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell the story of a man, presumably the poet Antonio Machado, who embarks on a journey with nothing but his pride, a bit of faith, and a bitter aftertaste as his companions. The imagery of looking back and seeing only lifeless fields and a garden without flowers paints a picture of desolation and the remnants of a once-vibrant life now faded. This journey is not just physical but also metaphorical, representing a reflection on past experiences and the inevitable decay that comes with time.

The song continues to describe the man's final moments by the sea, where he drinks in his past 'sip by sip.' This poignant metaphor suggests a slow, deliberate contemplation of his life, filled with both achievements and regrets. The reference to Antonio not wanting to be a prophet or martyr, yet becoming a bit of both, speaks to the unintended roles people often play in their lives. The 'gruesa losa gris' (thick gray slab) that covers his brother's grave, along with artificial flowers and a cypress tree providing shade, symbolizes the enduring yet artificial attempts to preserve memory and honor the dead.

Serrat's lyrical craftsmanship shines through in the way he weaves personal and historical narratives, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and reflection. The song is a tribute to the poet Antonio Machado, who died in exile in Collioure, France, during the Spanish Civil War. The use of natural elements like the sea, flowers, and trees contrasts with the artificiality of the grave decorations, highlighting the tension between genuine memory and the ways we try to immortalize it. 'En Coulliure' is a hauntingly beautiful meditation on the passage of time, the inevitability of death, and the bittersweet nature of remembrance.