Quita Esa Cara
José Madero
The Skeptic's Lament: José Madero's 'Quita Esa Cara'
José Madero's 'Quita Esa Cara' is a song that delves into themes of skepticism, disillusionment, and the search for authenticity in a world that often feels cold and impersonal. The lyrics express a strong disbelief in religious figures and the notion of divine intervention, as the narrator declares no longer believing in God or his 'trúhanes' (rogues or deceivers). This sets the tone for a narrative that challenges established norms and seeks to unveil the 'truths' that are often obscured by societal conventions.
The song's chorus, which talks about escaping through the window into the cold and forgetting jackets, suggests a metaphorical departure from comfort zones and the familiar. The act of turning a new house into a bonfire could symbolize a radical change or destruction of the old to make way for the new, even if the solutions are 'macabre' or grim. This imagery paints a picture of someone who is willing to face the harsh realities of life head-on, without the protection of comforting illusions.
In the final verses, there's a shift to a more intimate setting, where the narrator calls for a companion to join him and 'quita esa cara' (remove that face), implying to let go of facades and be genuine. The mention of the companion looking 'darkly beautiful' while lying down suggests finding beauty in authenticity, even if it's unconventional. The song closes with the acknowledgment that life is transient, and perhaps the only thing that truly matters is the connection we share with others in the moment.