Cantares

Nicho Hinojosa's 'Cantares' is a profound reflection on the transient nature of life and the importance of the journey over the destination. The song opens with the lines 'Todo pasa y todo queda, pero lo nuestro es pasar,' which translates to 'Everything passes and everything stays, but ours is to pass.' This sets the tone for the song, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of human existence and the idea that life is about moving forward, making one's path as they go.

The recurring theme of 'Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar' ('Traveler, there is no path, the path is made by walking') serves as a powerful metaphor for life's journey. It suggests that there is no pre-determined path to follow; instead, each person creates their own path through their actions and experiences. This idea is reinforced by the imagery of footprints and the notion that looking back reveals a path that can never be retraced, highlighting the uniqueness of each individual's journey.

Hinojosa also touches on the fleeting beauty of life with lines like 'Yo amo los mundos sutiles, ungrávidos y gentiles, como pompas de jabón' ('I love the subtle worlds, weightless and gentle, like soap bubbles'). This metaphor captures the delicate and transient nature of beautiful moments, which, like soap bubbles, are fragile and short-lived. The song also pays homage to poets and artists who, despite their struggles and the impermanence of their work, continue to create and inspire. The repeated phrase 'Golpe a golpe, verso a verso' ('Blow by blow, verse by verse') underscores the idea that life and art are built through continuous effort and perseverance.

'Cantares' is a contemplative piece that encourages listeners to embrace the journey of life, to find beauty in fleeting moments, and to understand that the path is made by walking. It is a celebration of the human spirit's resilience and creativity, even in the face of life's inevitable transience.