La acera de Calcuta

Nacho Cano's song "La acera de Calcuta" paints a vivid picture of a journey from hardship to hope. The lyrics tell the story of a person reflecting on their past life in Calcutta, a city often associated with extreme poverty and challenging living conditions. The opening lines set the tone by describing the harshness of the streets, filled with garbage and wounds, both literal and metaphorical. The mention of the protagonist's mother and her incurable madness brought on by pain adds a deeply personal and emotional layer to the narrative.

The chorus introduces a turning point: the decision to leave. The imagery of boarding a plane with just a blanket, four apples, memories, and hope signifies a leap of faith towards a better future. The protagonist's realization that in the vastness of space, social hierarchies and castes disappear, and the blankets are already there, suggests a sense of equality and shared humanity that transcends their previous experiences. This moment of enlightenment is a powerful metaphor for the possibility of change and new beginnings.

Upon arriving in Spain, the protagonist notices the stark differences from their life in Calcutta—no cows on the streets, access to clean water, and the comfort of a warm bed. However, they also face the challenge of being different, as their darker skin draws attention. Despite these challenges, the song's refrain reminds us that the harshness of Calcutta's streets taught valuable lessons. The final lines poetically express that even in the trash, the most beautiful flowers can grow, symbolizing resilience and the potential for beauty and growth in the most unlikely places.