Y Soñará
José Luis Perales
The Dream of Escape: A Glimpse into Everyday Longing
José Luis Perales' song "Y Soñará" delves into the monotonous and often disheartening routine of an average working individual. The protagonist is depicted as someone who is constantly worried and burdened by the daily grind. He lies about the traffic to justify his tardiness, a small act of rebellion against the rigid structure of his life. This routine is further emphasized by his habitual actions, such as hanging up his jacket and grabbing a coffee from the machine, symbolizing the repetitive nature of his existence.
The chorus introduces a glimmer of hope and escape through the metaphor of "una de catorce," which refers to a lottery ticket. This dream of winning the lottery represents a universal desire for a sudden change in fortune, a way out of the mundane and into a life of freedom and possibility. The repetition of this dream highlights its importance to the protagonist, serving as a mental escape from his otherwise unchanging reality.
Despite this dream, the song acknowledges the inevitability of continuing with the current pace of life. The protagonist must keep up with the rhythm dictated by his circumstances, marked by the passing of seasons and the wear and tear of his calendar. The mention of his hair turning gray signifies the passage of time and the physical toll of his unfulfilled life. Yet, even as he ages, the dream of winning the lottery remains a constant source of hope, a small light in the otherwise dim routine.
"Y Soñará" captures the essence of human longing for a better life, the struggle against the constraints of daily existence, and the enduring power of dreams to provide solace and motivation. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt trapped by their circumstances and has clung to the hope of a brighter future.