Ciudad descalza

Los Gardelitos' song 'Ciudad descalza' paints a vivid picture of a city that comes alive in the quiet hours of the night. The lyrics describe a city that 'leaves off looking at the day' and becomes a different entity when 'everything is asleep and the street no longer shines.' This transformation is almost mystical, suggesting that the city has a soul that awakens when the hustle and bustle of daily life subsides. The 'men who go to see God' could be interpreted as those who find a deeper, almost spiritual connection with the city during these quiet hours.

The song also delves into the seductive yet harsh nature of urban life. The 'virgin jungle' of the city can 'seduce your dreams,' but it demands a sacrifice—'your warm body to the cold buildings.' This metaphor highlights the duality of city life, where dreams and aspirations are intertwined with the cold, often unforgiving reality of urban existence. The desire for connection is palpable, as the singer wishes for someone to be there, 'talking to me' at the end.

As the song progresses, it shifts to a more personal narrative. Walking down Corrientes at three in the morning, the singer reflects on the many eyes that have shone but notes that 'you are still the same.' This line suggests a sense of constancy amidst the ever-changing cityscape. The recurring theme of the sun dying and being reborn symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the perpetual search for meaning. The fear that 'froze your bones' in the intensity of traffic and the quest to find oneself in the labyrinth of streets encapsulate the existential struggles faced by city dwellers. The question of whether the sun will rise again serves as a metaphor for hope and renewal in the face of adversity.