Una Vuelta Más
Juan Carlos Baglietto
The Urban Melancholy of Buenos Aires
“Una Vuelta Más” by Juan Carlos Baglietto is a poignant reflection on the urban life and the bittersweet experiences of Buenos Aires. The song opens with a vivid image of Astor Piazzolla, a renowned Argentine composer, crying over the city's moss-covered streets, filled with the smell of pizzerias and car exhaust. This sets the tone for a melancholic yet affectionate portrayal of the city, highlighting its unique blend of beauty and decay.
The lyrics paint a picture of everyday life in Buenos Aires, from the noisy newspaper vendors to the horizontal trains and unjust traffic lights. The character Huguito, a lonely bachelor, meets a tragic end, symbolizing the harsh realities faced by many in the city. Meanwhile, in the parks, parents put on clownish smiles to bring joy to their innocent children, masking their own worries and struggles. This contrast between the innocence of children and the burdens of adulthood underscores the complexity of urban life.
The song also touches on the theme of illusion versus reality. The sun, described as a hero, blooms in the deceit of playgrounds filled with swings, slides, and popcorn. This imagery suggests that the simple joys of childhood are often overshadowed by the harsh truths of life. Baglietto concludes with a powerful statement that poetry does not belong to Buenos Aires itself but to those who live, suffer, and enjoy it. This emphasizes the idea that the true essence of the city lies in the experiences and emotions of its inhabitants.