Trepando, Siempre Trepando
José Larralde
Climbing Through Life's Hardships: The Resilience in 'Trepando, Siempre Trepando'
José Larralde's song 'Trepando, Siempre Trepando' is a poignant reflection on the struggles and resilience of life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has faced numerous hardships and challenges, yet continues to persevere. The phrase 'trepando, siempre trepando' (climbing, always climbing) serves as a powerful metaphor for the relentless effort to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward, despite the difficulties encountered along the way.
The song opens with a sense of frustration and resignation, as the narrator speaks of trying to make the best of a difficult situation ('tanto hacerle la pata ancha, al pulpero de la vida'). The imagery of having nothing left to pawn ('si no tengo pa´ empeñar, ni una nada que se diga') underscores the depth of their struggle. The mention of 'bolsas de pluma repleta' (bags full of feathers) and 'mi dicha y mi roseta enllenaron sus cajones' (my happiness and my rosette filled their drawers) suggests that the narrator has given away their joy and achievements, leaving them with little to hold onto.
As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on the pain and unfairness of life ('vida pucha que me duele tu corazón de maleza'). The metaphor of a tree that keeps its roots but loses its bark ('árbol que guarda sus ráices siempre le suebra corteza') highlights the idea of holding onto one's core identity and strength, even as external hardships strip away other aspects of life. The narrator's resilience is further emphasized by their refusal to be defeated or to give up ('pero no vayas a creer que has de llevarme llorando').
In the final lines, the narrator declares that they will continue to climb and strive, no matter what ('a mi lama la han de hallar trepando, siempre trepando'). This powerful statement encapsulates the theme of the song: the unyielding determination to keep pushing forward, regardless of the challenges faced. Larralde's evocative lyrics and heartfelt delivery make 'Trepando, Siempre Trepando' a moving tribute to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and perseverance.