La Vida Total

Patricio Manns' song 'La Vida Total' is a profound meditation on the cyclical nature of life, death, and the human experience. The lyrics are rich with metaphors that explore the interconnectedness of various elements of existence. Manns begins by describing life as a space between two deaths, suggesting that life is a transient phase bookended by the inevitability of death. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which delves into the complexities and paradoxes of human emotions and experiences.

The song uses vivid imagery to convey the essence of love, pain, and time. For instance, Manns describes love as an orgasm between two tears, highlighting the fleeting yet intense nature of love and its close relationship with sorrow. The metaphor of a tear as a lake without its song evokes a sense of emptiness and longing. The progression of metaphors continues to explore the physical and emotional aspects of human existence, such as the mouth being a mystery before the chest, and the chest being an abyss between two bloods. These lines suggest a deep exploration of the human body and its functions, both physical and emotional.

Manns also touches on the broader aspects of existence, such as the relationship between the jungle and the desert, and the concept of consciousness as an ancient hourglass. These metaphors suggest a timeless and universal connection between different states of being. The song concludes with a reflection on the unattainable, stating that what we cannot achieve will always be what we desire most. This final thought encapsulates the human condition, marked by a perpetual longing for the impossible. Through 'La Vida Total,' Manns invites listeners to contemplate the profound and often paradoxical nature of life, love, and existence.