Yo quiero ver un trén

Luis Alberto Spinetta's song "Yo quiero ver un trén" is a poignant reflection on nostalgia and loss set against a dystopian backdrop. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing for simpler times, specifically the artist's childhood, juxtaposed with the harsh reality of a world devastated by a catastrophic event referred to as the 'neutrónica.' This term, while not explicitly defined, suggests a nuclear or technological disaster that has left the world barren and devoid of essential resources like water. The imagery of 'vías muertas' (dead tracks) and an 'expreso que quedó en el pasado' (express that remained in the past) symbolizes the end of progress and the collapse of civilization as it was once known.

The recurring desire to see a train, a symbol of movement, progress, and connection, underscores the artist's yearning for a return to normalcy and the familiar comforts of the past. Trains, often associated with childhood memories and simpler times, represent a stark contrast to the desolate and contaminated world described in the song. The repetition of the phrase 'Yo quiero ver un tren' (I want to see a train) emphasizes this deep-seated longing and the pain of its absence.

Spinetta's lyrics also touch on themes of environmental degradation and the consequences of human actions. The 'fuego verde' (green fire) and 'materia disuelta' (dissolved matter) floating in a sunless atmosphere paint a picture of a world suffering from severe pollution and ecological collapse. This serves as a powerful commentary on the fragility of our environment and the irreversible damage that can result from neglect and exploitation. Through this hauntingly beautiful song, Spinetta not only mourns the loss of the past but also issues a stark warning about the future if humanity continues on its current path.