Cantares

Joan Manuel Serrat's 'Cantares' is a song that delves into the philosophical and existential musings about life's journey and the legacy one leaves behind. The lyrics, inspired by the famous Spanish poet Antonio Machado, reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of the path one carves for oneself.

The refrain 'Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar' which translates to 'Wanderer, there is no path, the path is made by walking,' serves as the song's core message. It suggests that life does not come with a predetermined route; instead, each person creates their own path through their actions and experiences. This idea is reinforced by the imagery of paths over the sea, which are temporary and can only be seen once one has passed. The song also touches on the futility of seeking glory and the beauty of ephemeral, delicate things in life, like soap bubbles, which are appreciated for their momentary existence.

The song's narrative voice also pays homage to the poet who has passed away, acknowledging that while the poet's physical journey has ended, the metaphorical path they blazed through their words continues to resonate. The repeated lines 'Golpe a golpe, verso a verso' ('Stroke by stroke, verse by verse') emphasize the steady, deliberate creation of one's legacy through small, consistent efforts. 'Cantares' is a reflective piece that encourages listeners to appreciate the journey of life and to understand that the marks we leave are the paths we create for ourselves.