Cuando El Arte Ataque

Luis Alberto Spinetta's song 'Cuando El Arte Ataque' delves into the complex interplay between love and art, exploring themes of emotional turmoil and the transformative power of artistic expression. The lyrics open with a sense of awakening and realization, as the narrator reflects on moments spent without the love they once had. This sets the stage for the recurring question, 'Quien resistira (cuando el arte ataque)?' or 'Who will resist (when art attacks)?', suggesting that art has a profound impact that can challenge and change individuals deeply.

The song's imagery is rich and evocative, with metaphors like 'Tu corazon tiene el sabor designal' ('Your heart has a distinct flavor') and 'Estas haciendo una cazuela de mi' ('You are making a stew out of me'). These lines convey a sense of being consumed and altered by love, much like how art can consume and transform its audience. The narrator's plea for 'la mitad' ('half') and 'la verdad' ('the truth') underscores a desire for balance and honesty in the face of emotional chaos.

Spinetta also weaves historical and cultural references into the song, such as 'Como la historia que arraso con el Peru' ('Like the history that ravaged Peru'), drawing parallels between personal and collective experiences of upheaval. The repeated refrain 'Quien resistira (cuando el arte ataque)?' serves as a powerful reminder of art's ability to provoke, challenge, and ultimately, heal. The song concludes with a sense of resignation and acceptance, acknowledging the inevitable loss and confusion that comes with love, yet also recognizing the enduring impact of art in navigating these emotions.