Ya Se Va Aquella Edad

Pablo Milanés' song "Ya Se Va Aquella Edad" is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the journey towards self-discovery. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for a period in life that is fading away, which is a common theme in Milanés' work, known for his contributions to the Nueva Trova movement in Cuba, which combines traditional folk music with contemporary themes of love, social justice, and personal introspection.

The song speaks to the universal experience of growing older and the bittersweet realization that certain stages of life are behind us. Milanés uses phrases like "Qué lindo fue, que despertar" (How beautiful it was, that awakening) to express the beauty of youth and the intense emotions associated with coming of age. The lyrics "Fue crecer, saber, dudar" (It was to grow, to know, to doubt) suggest a process of maturation that involves learning, questioning, and ultimately finding one's identity. This journey is not without its challenges, as indicated by the words "Se va imponiendo, lacerando" (It is imposing, lacerating), which convey the pain that can accompany personal growth and change.

The recurring line "Ya se va aquella edad" (That age is now leaving) serves as a reminder that time moves forward inexorably. The song captures the melancholic acceptance of this fact, while also acknowledging the transformative power of the experiences that shape us. The finality of the journey is emphasized with the phrase "Ya en un viaje del que jamás regresarás" (Now on a journey from which you will never return), highlighting the irreversible nature of life's transitions and the importance of embracing the present moment.