Mariposas de Madera

The song 'Mariposas de Madera' by Miguel Abuelo is a poetic exploration of the ephemeral and elusive nature of beauty, emotions, or perhaps relationships. The title itself, which translates to 'Wooden Butterflies,' suggests something that is inherently contradictory – the organic and delicate nature of butterflies contrasted with the rigid and lifeless material of wood. This juxtaposition sets the tone for a song that deals with the desire to capture and preserve something that is by nature fleeting.

The lyrics speak of giving wooden butterflies as a gift, which could symbolize an attempt to hold onto a moment, feeling, or person. The act of giving something that cannot fly away like real butterflies might represent a wish for permanence in a world where everything is transient. The reference to 'butterflies with wings of water' further emphasizes the fragility and the difficulty of grasping what we cherish; water is fluid and impossible to hold onto, just like the intangible things we value in life.

The final verses of the song shift from the metaphorical to the communal and action-oriented. The singer invites a friend to fish and a companion to walk, suggesting a turn towards shared experiences and the importance of living in the present. It's a call to engage with life's simple pleasures and to find joy in the company of others, rather than chasing after the unattainable or dwelling on what cannot be preserved.