Amigo Nenhum

Matanza's song "Amigo Nenhum" paints a vivid picture of a city that embodies despair and regret. The protagonist returns to a place he had vowed never to revisit, only to be immediately filled with remorse. The lyrics describe a night that starts off well but inevitably ends in disaster, reflecting a cycle of hope and disappointment. This cyclical nature of despair is a central theme, as the protagonist observes that despite the passage of time and generations, the city remains unchanged and continues to deteriorate.

The song delves into the protagonist's deep-seated hatred for the city, which he describes as a place where danger is inescapable and friendships are non-existent. The imagery of a bar where sailors once played poker, now filthy and decrepit, serves as a metaphor for the city's decline. The protagonist's memories of the city are filled with loathing, and he curses the misfortune of being born there. The repeated refrain emphasizes the isolation and lack of camaraderie, highlighting a community where no one can trust or rely on anyone else.

As the protagonist navigates the city's labyrinthine streets, he is met with relentless rain and a biting cold that makes even breathing difficult. This harsh environment mirrors his internal turmoil. Returning to his dusty hotel room, he finds it exactly as he left it, symbolizing his realization that he has never truly escaped the city's grip. The spilled wine on the carpet is a poignant reminder of his past mistakes and the inescapable nature of his circumstances. The song's powerful imagery and raw emotion capture the essence of a place that traps its inhabitants in a cycle of misery and isolation.