Ella
León Gieco
The Journey of Acceptance in León Gieco's 'Ella'
León Gieco's song 'Ella' is a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and acceptance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person reflecting on someone who was once a significant part of their life. The imagery of 'ojos claros en la oscuridad' (clear eyes in the darkness) and 'florcita lila resiste a los vientos' (little purple flower resisting the winds) suggests a person who brought light and resilience into the singer's life. These metaphors highlight the beauty and strength of the individual being remembered, setting a tone of reverence and admiration.
The recurring line 'Ya no lloro, ella es parte del camino' (I no longer cry, she is part of the journey) signifies a shift from grief to acceptance. The singer acknowledges that the person they are mourning is now an integral part of their life's journey. This acceptance is further emphasized through the reflection on old photographs and the realization of how much this person meant to them. The line 'Fue niña un día y yo no lo sabía' (She was a child one day and I didn't know it) underscores the fleeting nature of time and the deep emotional impact of this realization.
Gieco also delves into the themes of shared experiences and the passage of time. The lines 'De la misma fuente lo sacamos todo' (We took everything from the same source) and 'Pocas fiestas en la vida duran porque sacamos tanto y pusimos poco' (Few parties in life last because we took so much and put in so little) reflect on the ephemeral nature of joy and the imbalance between taking and giving in relationships. The song concludes with a mix of pain and solace, as the singer finds some comfort in the memories and the understanding that the person they lost is now a permanent part of their life's path.