¿Quién Sabe?
Las Pastillas del Abuelo
The Uncertainty of Love in '¿Quién Sabe?' by Las Pastillas del Abuelo
The song '¿Quién Sabe?' by Las Pastillas del Abuelo, an Argentine rock band known for their poetic lyrics and blend of rock, blues, and other genres, delves into the theme of uncertain love and the transition from friendship to something more intimate. The title itself, which translates to 'Who Knows?', encapsulates the song's exploration of the ambiguity and unpredictability of romantic feelings that develop between friends.
The lyrics describe two friends who maintain a casual relationship, sharing cigarettes and small talk, yet there is an underlying tension that suggests a deeper connection. The setting of San Telmo, a historic district in Buenos Aires, adds a romantic backdrop to their encounter. The cold night, the quiet bar, and the wine they share become accomplices in their unfolding story. The phrase 'Y que siga la milonga amor' suggests they are letting the rhythm of life, like the milonga dance, take them where it may, embracing the moment without concern for the future.
The song's refrain, 'Y si el diablo se contenta con que dudes un instante,' implies that temptation and doubt are ever-present, but they choose to give in to their desires, leaving their 'miseries' behind for the night. The repeated question 'Quien sabe?' reflects the uncertainty of where their relationship is headed, leaving listeners to ponder the possibilities of love that might be fleeting or might evolve into something lasting.