A Tapar La Calle

Pablo Guerrero's song "A Tapar La Calle" is a powerful anthem that juxtaposes the act of closing and opening the streets as a metaphor for societal control and liberation. The lyrics oscillate between the desire to block the streets from those who represent oppression, conformity, and control, and the urge to open them up for those who embody freedom, individuality, and rebellion. This duality serves as a critique of societal norms and a call for a more inclusive and expressive community.

The repeated phrase "A tapar la calle" (to block the street) is used to symbolize the exclusion of individuals who perpetuate war, control, and societal norms. These are the people who wear black, carry guns, and drink Coca-Cola, representing a homogenized and oppressive society. Guerrero's choice of imagery, such as the person who has no doubts and is always in a hurry, further emphasizes the critique of a life lived without questioning or individuality.

Conversely, the phrase "A abrir la calle" (to open the street) invites those who are often marginalized or overlooked. This includes people who dress in flowers, drink aguardiente, and paint on walls, symbolizing creativity, freedom, and non-conformity. The song also mentions grandmothers playing marbles and poorly groomed individuals, highlighting the beauty in everyday, unpolished life. By calling to open the streets to these people, Guerrero advocates for a society that values diversity, expression, and the breaking of conventional barriers.

The song's structure, alternating between closing and opening the streets, mirrors the ongoing struggle between oppression and liberation. It is a call to action, urging listeners to reclaim public spaces for genuine human interaction and expression. Guerrero's use of everyday characters and vivid imagery makes the song relatable and poignant, resonating with those who yearn for a more open and inclusive world.