Al Rojo de La Tarde

Real de Catorce's 'Al Rojo de La Tarde' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of solitude, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a solitary figure, a woman, who is deeply immersed in playing the piano as the day transitions into night. The phrase 'al rojo de la tarde' suggests the intense, almost burning hue of the evening sky, setting a melancholic and introspective tone for the song.

The imagery of the woman 'murmuring a tune' and 'sitting almost in darkness' evokes a sense of isolation and introspection. Her act of playing the piano 'until the end' symbolizes a commitment to her art, perhaps as a means of coping with her emotions. The description of her hands as 'made of glass' and her blood carrying 'rivers' of notes suggests fragility and a deep emotional connection to the music she plays. This metaphorical language underscores the theme of vulnerability and the cathartic power of music.

The mention of 'the blue bow of an old cat' and 'a dead sun painting her hair' adds layers of nostalgia and loss. These lines hint at memories and past experiences that linger in her mind, influencing her present state. The 'old cat' could symbolize a long-gone companion or a cherished memory, while the 'dead sun' suggests the end of a vibrant period in her life. As the night 'softens' and her body grows cold, the music 'flees far away,' indicating the inevitable end of her performance and perhaps a metaphorical end to her emotional journey. The song captures the essence of a poignant moment, where music becomes a vessel for expressing deep-seated emotions and memories.