Plegaria

Pablo Milanés' song 'Plegaria' delves into themes of lost faith, existential questioning, and the search for redemption. The title itself, which translates to 'Prayer,' sets the tone for a deeply reflective and spiritual exploration. Milanés begins by questioning the death of God and who is responsible for it, suggesting a crisis of faith or a profound disillusionment with religious or spiritual beliefs. The imagery of a lost 'white, red, and blue book' could symbolize a lost guide or moral compass, leaving the narrator with only their mind and a significant other to rely on.

The second verse introduces a transactional metaphor, where the soul and body are commodities to be bought and sold. This could reflect a sense of moral decay or the commodification of human virtues in a materialistic world. The line 'Cualquiera muere, dos nacerán hay que confiar' (Anyone dies, two will be born, we must trust) suggests a cyclical view of life and death, urging a sense of trust in the natural order despite the surrounding chaos. The mention of conscience and the question of why to think if it won't explode implies a struggle with moral and ethical dilemmas.

The song also touches on historical and mythical references, such as the distance between Babylon and El Dorado, symbolizing the journey between corruption and utopia. The reference to Christ and a burning temple evokes apocalyptic imagery, perhaps indicating a need for spiritual renewal or a return to foundational beliefs. The closing lines, 'Hoy es muy tarde, mañana habrá que trabajar, viva la Tierra, que buen lugar para morar,' bring a sense of urgency and a call to action, celebrating the Earth as a place worth living in despite the existential struggles. Milanés' poignant lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own beliefs, values, and the state of the world around them.