Tratado de Impaciencia Número 11

Joaquín Sabina's song 'Tratado de Impaciencia Número 11' is a poignant exploration of missed opportunities and the what-ifs of a romantic encounter that never materialized. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night that could have been filled with passion, connection, and intimacy, but instead, it remained a mere possibility. Sabina's storytelling prowess shines through as he describes the absence of typical romantic gestures and the lack of a climactic ending, emphasizing the void left by the unfulfilled rendezvous.

The song begins with the narrator recounting how the anticipated meeting did not happen. There were no apologies for being late, no attempts to impress with grandiose tales, and no aimless wandering through the streets of Chamberí. The absence of these actions highlights the emptiness of the night, creating a sense of longing and regret. The mention of the moon suggesting a kiss that never happened adds a layer of poetic melancholy, symbolizing missed moments of connection.

As the song progresses, Sabina delves deeper into the unrealized potential of the night. There was no dancing, no trembling of hearts, and no transition from words to actions. The imagery of not ending up in bed, where such encounters typically culminate, underscores the theme of unfulfilled desire. The final verses reveal a twist: neither party showed up for the date. This mutual failure to meet adds a touch of irony and self-reflection, as the narrator acknowledges his own role in the missed opportunity. The song ultimately serves as a meditation on the fleeting nature of chance encounters and the lingering impact of what might have been.