Veinte Años

José Luis Perales' song "Veinte Años" delves into the quiet, often unspoken struggles of a long-term marriage. The narrative follows a woman who married young, full of hope and dreams, only to find herself disillusioned and weary after just a few days. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her life, where she constantly questions her happiness while trying to maintain a facade of contentment for her husband. The repetition of her looking into the mirror and practicing a smile underscores her internal conflict and the emotional labor she endures to keep the relationship afloat.

The song poignantly captures the emotional distance that has grown between the couple over twenty years. They live in the same house but are worlds apart, with their interactions reduced to mere routines. The imagery of her drinking coffee while he sleeps in his chair, accompanied by the song of a sparrow in the garden, symbolizes the mundane and isolated existence they share. The line "se han dormido en el jardín las primaveras" (the springs have fallen asleep in the garden) metaphorically suggests that the vibrancy and passion of their early years have faded away.

Despite her inner turmoil, the woman feels trapped by her responsibilities, particularly towards her four children. The recurring line "Pero no hay tiempo de pensar, se le hizo tarde" (But there's no time to think, it's too late) highlights her sense of urgency and the overwhelming demands of her daily life. This song is a poignant reflection on the sacrifices and silent suffering that can accompany long-term commitments, especially when love and communication have dwindled over time.