Cadalso Temporal

Luis Alberto Spinetta's 'Cadalso Temporal' is a haunting exploration of existential despair and the search for meaning amidst chaos. The song's title, which translates to 'Temporary Scaffold,' suggests a transient state of suffering or entrapment. Spinetta, a revered figure in Argentine rock, uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey a sense of being lost and overwhelmed by the passage of time. The repeated lines 'caen y caen las horas' (hours fall and fall) emphasize the relentless march of time, contributing to the protagonist's feeling of being adrift and unable to find light or direction.

The lyrics paint a bleak picture of the environment, describing the streets as 'bocas de lobo' (wolf's mouths) and 'gargantas del piso' (throats of the floor), evoking a sense of danger and entrapment. This imagery suggests that the external world is hostile and unwelcoming, mirroring the internal turmoil of the protagonist. The refrain 'este cadalso temporal no es mío, no es para mi' (this temporary scaffold is not mine, not for me) reflects a rejection of this state of suffering, hinting at a desire for liberation and a better existence.

Spinetta also touches on broader social issues, mentioning the pain caused by AIDS, wars, and the struggle for freedom ('tratando de abrir el jaulón' - trying to open the big cage). These references ground the personal anguish in a wider context of global suffering, suggesting that the protagonist's search for happiness is hindered by the world's injustices. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own struggles and the transient nature of life's hardships, ultimately seeking hope and meaning beyond the immediate darkness.