Construcción

Nacha Guevara's song 'Construcción' is a poignant exploration of the fleeting and fragile nature of human existence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a construction worker's daily life, filled with repetitive yet deeply human actions. Each verse begins with the worker performing ordinary tasks—loving, kissing, eating, and working—as if each moment were his last. This repetition underscores the preciousness of every single action, no matter how mundane it may seem.

The song employs a series of metaphors to highlight the worker's vulnerability and the precariousness of his life. For instance, he 'subió a la construcción como si fuera máquina' (climbed the construction as if he were a machine), suggesting the dehumanizing nature of his labor. Yet, despite this mechanical existence, he experiences profound emotions, indicated by 'sus ojos empapados de cemento y lágrimas' (his eyes soaked with cement and tears). This juxtaposition of the mechanical and the emotional underscores the duality of his existence—caught between the demands of his labor and his human need for connection and expression.

The tragic end of the worker, who 'murió a contramano interrumpiendo el tráfico' (died against the flow, interrupting traffic), serves as a stark reminder of the often-overlooked lives of laborers. His death is not just a personal tragedy but a public spectacle, disrupting the everyday flow of life. This moment forces the listener to confront the harsh realities faced by those who build the very structures we inhabit. The song's cyclical structure, repeating the same actions with slight variations, mirrors the repetitive nature of the worker's life and the inevitability of his fate.

'Construcción' is a powerful commentary on the human condition, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the humanity in every individual, regardless of their social or economic status. It calls for empathy and awareness, urging us to see beyond the surface and acknowledge the complex lives of those who often go unnoticed.