12 Segundos de Oscuridad

Jorge Drexler's song '12 Segundos de Oscuridad' is a poetic exploration of life's journey, using the metaphor of a lighthouse to convey deeper meanings about guidance, patience, and the interplay between light and darkness. The lighthouse, with its rotating beam of light, serves as a symbol of hope and direction for those lost at sea. However, Drexler emphasizes that it is not the light itself that holds the true significance, but rather the intervals of darkness—the '12 seconds of darkness'—that provide the necessary contrast and rhythm for the light to be meaningful.

The lyrics describe a search for direction ('Yo buscaba el rumbo de regreso sin quererlo encontrar') and the slow, deliberate steps taken in the dark ('Pie detrás de pie, iba tras el pulso de claridad'). This imagery suggests a journey of self-discovery and the importance of persistence even when the path is not clear. The lighthouse's light, which only becomes visible in the darkness, underscores the idea that moments of uncertainty and obscurity are essential for finding one's way.

Drexler's use of the lighthouse as a metaphor extends to the broader human experience. The line 'De poco le sirve al navegante que no sepa esperar' highlights the virtue of patience. Just as sailors must wait for the light to guide them, individuals must endure periods of darkness to appreciate the moments of clarity and guidance that follow. The song's message is a reminder that life's challenges and uncertainties are not just obstacles but integral parts of the journey that shape our understanding and growth.