Buenos Aires

Joaquín Sabina's song 'Buenos Aires' is a poetic and vivid portrayal of the Argentine capital, capturing its essence through a series of contrasting images and emotions. The lyrics paint Buenos Aires as a city where joy and despair coexist, where the mundane and the extraordinary intertwine. Sabina describes the city as a living entity, a 'bicho' that walks between dreams and confusion, highlighting the dynamic and often chaotic nature of urban life.

The song delves into the personal experiences of the narrator, who finds solace in reading, smoking, playing the piano, and drinking alone. This introspective journey reflects the broader existential struggles faced by the city's inhabitants. Sabina touches on the cyclical nature of life in Buenos Aires, where history repeats itself 'from generation to degeneration,' suggesting a sense of stagnation and perpetual conflict. Yet, amidst this turmoil, there is a persistent undercurrent of creativity and resilience, embodied by cultural icons like Charly García and the enduring spirit of tango.

Sabina also critiques the socio-political landscape of Buenos Aires, pointing out the lack of respect and reason in politics and the haunting presence of past atrocities. The city is depicted as a place where dreams and nightmares coexist, where the past and present are in constant dialogue. Despite the challenges, there is a yearning for change and a desire to lift the veil of desolation. The song ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing the power of imagination and the enduring spirit of Buenos Aires, where even in the darkest times, the sun always rises again.