Vis a Vis

Leiva's song 'Vis a Vis' is a deeply emotional and evocative piece that explores the themes of love, separation, and resilience. The title itself, 'Vis a Vis,' refers to a face-to-face meeting, often used in the context of prison visits. This sets the stage for a narrative that delves into the struggles of maintaining a relationship under the constraints of incarceration. The imagery of shadows cast by bars and the act of writing letters and songs to a loved one highlight the emotional toll and the lengths to which one goes to keep love alive despite physical barriers.

The lyrics convey a sense of longing and determination. Lines like 'Si el mundo está del revés, habrá que buscar cordura y una pizca de locura para saber quererte más' suggest that in a world turned upside down, finding a balance between sanity and a touch of madness is essential to love more deeply. The recurring theme of writing, whether it be a letter or a song, symbolizes the effort to communicate and connect, even when separated by walls and distance. The act of making a small wound to sign with blood signifies a profound commitment, a promise not to abandon the loved one, and to give voice to those who love but cannot be together.

The song also touches on the broader theme of freedom and the pain of its absence. The line 'Fuera se te echa de menos, anda llorando la libertad' speaks to the yearning for freedom and the sorrow it brings. The metaphor of chains made of salt that dissolve with tears underscores the fragility and the emotional weight of the situation. The 'vis a vis quincenal' or bi-weekly visits become a bittersweet ritual, a brief respite in a sea of longing and separation. Through this poignant narrative, Leiva captures the essence of enduring love and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.