La Banqueta

Josue Alaniz's song "La Banqueta" is a poignant narrative about love, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell the story of a man who tells his partner that he must leave, breaking a promise he cannot keep. This sudden departure leaves the woman in a state of confusion and sorrow, as she struggles to understand why life has taken such a turn. The metaphor of April being stolen by a goodbye highlights the abrupt and painful nature of the separation, as April often symbolizes renewal and hope.

The imagery of the woman sitting on the sidewalk (la banqueta) is powerful and evocative. It represents her waiting and longing, as she watches her life and future slip away. The sidewalk becomes a place of reflection and sorrow, where she grapples with her memories and the pain of her loss. The act of biting her memories to avoid crying suggests a deep internal struggle to maintain composure and dignity in the face of overwhelming grief.

As time passes, the woman keeps her heartbreak a secret, locking it away in a metaphorical drawer. Despite aging, her love for the man only grows stronger. Her daily ritual of sitting on the sidewalk at 6 o'clock, accompanied by hope, underscores her enduring love and the unyielding hope that he might return. The song beautifully captures the essence of unfulfilled love and the emotional toll it takes on those left behind, making it a touching and relatable piece for anyone who has experienced similar heartache.