Extraño Ser
Man Ray
The Enigmatic Longing in 'Extraño Ser' by Man Ray
Man Ray's song 'Extraño Ser' delves into the themes of longing and the enigmatic nature of human connections. The lyrics open with a sense of waiting and anticipation, as the singer questions how many days and hours must pass before they can connect with the 'extraño ser' or 'strange being.' This phrase suggests a person who is both fascinating and elusive, someone the singer deeply desires to communicate with but finds themselves unable to do so. The use of 'extraño' (strange) and 'adorable' (adorable) in close succession highlights the complexity of this person, who is both mysterious and captivating.
The song continues to explore the feeling of being surrounded by people who are different from oneself. The line 'Cuanta gente vuela por aquí' (How many people fly around here) evokes a sense of disconnection and alienation, as the singer observes others who do not share their unique perspective or emotional state. This imagery of flight and movement contrasts with the singer's own static position, emphasizing their sense of isolation and the difficulty of finding a kindred spirit.
In the final lines, the singer's longing becomes more palpable as they describe watching a train and the eyes of the 'extraño ser' traveling with it. The train symbolizes a journey or a passage of time, and the eyes represent a fleeting connection that the singer yearns to make permanent. The repetition of 'cerca mío' (close to me) underscores the intensity of this desire, as the singer hopes for a moment when the 'extraño ser' will be within reach, both physically and emotionally. Through its evocative lyrics, 'Extraño Ser' captures the universal human experience of longing for connection and the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled desire.