El Gran Varón (simón)
La Barra
The Unyielding Nature of Identity in 'El Gran Varón (Simón)'
La Barra's song 'El Gran Varón (Simón)' tells a poignant story about identity, acceptance, and the unchangeable nature of one's true self. The narrative begins with the birth of Simón, a child born in the summer of 1976, who is the pride of his father, Don Andrés, simply because he is a boy. Simón is raised with strict discipline and is expected to follow in his father's footsteps, embodying traditional masculine ideals. However, as Simón grows up and moves abroad, he begins to embrace his true identity, which starkly contrasts with his father's expectations. Simón adopts a more feminine appearance, wearing skirts and makeup, which leads to a dramatic confrontation when his father visits him unexpectedly and fails to recognize him.
The song's chorus, 'No se puede corregir a la naturaleza, palo que nace doblado, jamás su tronco endereza,' underscores the central theme that one's true nature cannot be changed. This metaphor suggests that just as a bent tree cannot be straightened, a person's inherent identity cannot be altered. The father's inability to accept Simón's true self results in a permanent estrangement, highlighting the destructive power of societal and familial rejection. The song also touches on the broader societal pressures and prejudices that influence individuals' lives and relationships.
As the years pass, the father's anger and refusal to accept Simón lead to a life filled with bitterness and regret. The song concludes with the tragic news of Simón's death from a mysterious illness in 1996, a poignant reminder of the consequences of rejection and the importance of compassion and acceptance. The final lines, 'El que nunca perdona tiene el destino cierto de vivir amargos recuerdos en su propio invierno,' serve as a powerful message about the necessity of forgiveness and the personal suffering that comes from holding onto prejudice and anger.