Que Son Esas Palabras

Juan Carlos Baglietto's song "Que Son Esas Palabras" delves into the profound and often unspoken bond between two people who have spent twenty years together. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple living a simple, rural life, where their daily routines and shared responsibilities form the backbone of their relationship. The man and woman, though never explicitly expressing their love through words, demonstrate their deep connection through their actions and presence in each other's lives. The imagery of the wheel of the mill and the yellow ivy in winter symbolizes the passage of time and the constancy of their companionship.

The song explores the theme of unspoken love, questioning the necessity of verbal affirmations in a relationship. The man never asks himself if he loves the woman, as their shared life and mutual support are enough to convey their bond. The line "que son esas palabras" (what are those words) underscores the idea that love can exist and thrive without being explicitly stated. The man's simple acknowledgment of knowing her name, Carmen, and calling her in the quiet moments of the evening, highlights the depth of their connection.

Tragically, the woman's sudden death while polishing silverware brings a poignant realization to the man. He learns, as the lyrics poignantly state, "que el amor es amor, aunque no se lo diga" (that love is love, even if it is not spoken). This revelation emphasizes that love's true essence lies in the shared experiences and silent understanding between two people. Baglietto's song beautifully captures the quiet strength of a long-term relationship, where love is felt deeply and expressed through everyday actions rather than words.