Cardo

José Larralde's song 'Cardo' is a poetic exploration of a wanderer's life, filled with vivid imagery and deep metaphors. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who travels through various landscapes, following trails that lead him to serene nights and celestial experiences. The act of 'bajar estrellas' (bringing down stars) symbolizes reaching for the divine or the extraordinary, aiming to adorn his 'nazarenas' (possibly a metaphor for his loved ones or his own soul) with celestial beauty. This imagery suggests a quest for something greater, a pursuit of beauty and meaning in life.

Larralde's mention of not using a guitar 'colgada a los tientos' (hanging by the straps) but instead carrying 'seis colores de aurora temprana' (six colors of early dawn) indicates a departure from traditional forms of expression. He prefers to serenade each window like the wind, implying a natural, unrestrained form of art and communication. This can be seen as a metaphor for living authentically and expressing oneself freely, without the constraints of societal expectations.

The song also delves into themes of resilience and integrity. The narrator speaks of crossing pampas and facing challenges with faith in his own strength, but always with fairness and without causing harm. The reference to the 'zorzal parlero' (talkative thrush) and the desire for the 'nardo' (spikenard) to never become a 'cardo' (thistle) reflect a longing for purity and the avoidance of bitterness or harm. The final lines, where the narrator compares himself to a 'pompón de cardo' (thistle pompom) that flies freely but can become a symbol of agony if trapped, encapsulate the duality of freedom and the potential for suffering.

Larralde's 'Cardo' is a rich tapestry of metaphors and cultural references, capturing the essence of a life lived in pursuit of beauty, authenticity, and integrity, while acknowledging the ever-present challenges and the importance of maintaining one's principles.