Poco Antes De Que Den Las Diez

Joan Manuel Serrat's song "Poco Antes De Que Den Las Diez" is a poignant narrative that captures the bittersweet moments of a clandestine love affair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who must leave her lover's side before the clock strikes ten, adhering to societal expectations and familial obligations. The song's melancholic tone is set right from the beginning, as the woman prepares to leave, smoothing her hair and fastening her skirt, actions that signify the end of their intimate time together.

The imagery of her descending the stairs "de dos en dos, de tres en tres" (two by two, three by three) emphasizes her haste and the urgency of her departure. This urgency is further underscored by the repeated refrain, "Vete. Se hace tarde. Vete ya..." (Go. It's getting late. Go now...), which conveys a sense of inevitability and resignation. The lover's silent acceptance of her departure, without reproach, adds to the song's emotional depth, highlighting the unspoken understanding and the pain of their separation.

As she leaves, the woman erases the last traces of their encounter, symbolizing the need to hide their relationship from the outside world. Her final, sorrowful "Adiós" from the corner and her hurried steps into the enveloping night evoke a sense of loss and longing. The song concludes with a return to normalcy, as she is welcomed back home by her mother, and the clock strikes ten, marking the end of their fleeting moments together. Serrat's evocative lyrics and the melancholic melody combine to create a powerful portrayal of love constrained by societal norms and the passage of time.