En La Selva

“En La Selva” by Juan Perro is a captivating narrative set in the heart of the jungle, weaving a tale of daily life, unexpected visitors, and a mysterious disappearance. The song begins by painting a picture of a simple life: a man who goes out every morning and a woman who stays home to cook. This idyllic routine is disrupted when the woman recounts an encounter with thieves who arrive silently, laden with trunks and a business proposition for the man, Manuel.

The thieves' arrival and their proposition introduce a sense of foreboding. They suggest that living in isolation provides the perfect cover for their illicit activities. The woman, eager to seize the opportunity, tries to persuade Manuel, but he remains unresponsive. Instead, he spends the evening smoking and watching a boat in the bay, a moment of calm before the storm. The next morning, Manuel disappears without a trace, leaving the woman to mourn his absence.

The song takes a darker turn as a bandit comforts the grieving widow, telling her not to cry because nothing has happened. This cryptic reassurance is echoed by a parrot, who repeats a chorus about the futility of burying treasure. The bandit’s final words to the parrot, advising it to keep quiet and save its money, add a layer of irony and cynicism to the story. The song ends on a note of unresolved tension, leaving listeners to ponder the fate of Manuel and the true intentions of the bandits.

Juan Perro’s storytelling is rich with metaphors and cultural references, creating a vivid and haunting narrative. The jungle setting, the mysterious disappearance, and the bandit’s cryptic advice all contribute to a sense of unease and intrigue, making “En La Selva” a compelling exploration of trust, betrayal, and the unknown.