Volver a Los Diecisiete

Violeta Parra's 'Volver a Los Diecisiete' is a poignant song that delves into the themes of youth, love, and the transformative power of emotions. The lyrics poetically describe the experience of feeling young again after having lived a lifetime, suggesting a renewal of innocence and wonder that is often associated with youth. Parra uses the metaphor of deciphering signs without being an expert to convey the idea of revisiting the freshness of adolescence with the wisdom of age, highlighting the contrast between experience and the naivety of youth.

The recurring imagery of nature in the song, such as ivy entwining on a wall and moss sprouting on a stone, symbolizes the persistent and gentle force of love and its ability to grow in even the most unlikely places. This natural growth represents the way love can infiltrate and rejuvenate one's life, regardless of age. The song suggests that love has the power to liberate and transform, turning the old into young and the bitter into kind-hearted. Parra emphasizes that love's 'science' makes us innocent again, indicating that love is a powerful and mystical force that can change our perception and experience of the world.

The song also touches on the idea that love is more potent than knowledge or reason. It speaks to the human condition, where feelings can override the most logical thought processes and lead to profound changes in one's life. The transformative power of love is celebrated as a force that can make the impossible possible, turning years back and making the soul serene. Parra's lyrics are a testament to the enduring and rejuvenating power of love, which can make us feel alive and youthful regardless of our actual age.