El Regreso

José Luis Perales' song "El Regreso" captures the essence of a journey marked by a deep sense of longing and the inevitable pull of home. The lyrics tell the story of someone who, tired of the hustle and bustle of Madrid, decides to leave the city behind in search of peace and simplicity. The protagonist embarks on a journey along the national highway, vowing never to return. This decision symbolizes a desire to escape the complexities and pressures of urban life, seeking solace in a more idyllic and natural setting.

The song paints vivid images of the protagonist's new life, where he trades his apartment for a utopian nest perched on a rock above a river, surrounded by nature. The descriptions of the landscape, such as the naked poplar tree and the bellowing deer, evoke a sense of pastoral beauty and tranquility. However, despite the initial joy and contentment found in this new environment, the protagonist realizes that happiness is fleeting. The phrase "no hay dicha que cien años dure" (there is no happiness that lasts a hundred years) reflects the transient nature of contentment and the inevitable return to reality.

Ultimately, the protagonist finds himself back in Madrid, navigating familiar streets and landmarks. The song's cyclical structure, beginning and ending with the protagonist's departure from Madrid, underscores the theme of return. The mention of iconic Madrid locations like Cibeles, Goya, Malasaña, and Lavapiés highlights the deep connection the protagonist has with the city, despite his attempts to leave it behind. "El Regreso" is a poignant reflection on the human desire for escape and the enduring bond with one's roots, capturing the bittersweet nature of returning to a place that is both familiar and ever-changing.