Vagancia
Remik González
Forged by the Streets: The Tale of Vagancia
Remik González's song 'Vagancia' is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of life on the streets, where survival and strength are forged through hardship and pain. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and resilience, emphasizing that the streets have shaped the artist into who he is today. The repeated line 'La vagancia fue la que me forjó' (Vagancia is what forged me) underscores the idea that the experiences and challenges faced in the streets have been instrumental in building his character and fortitude.
The song delves into the duality of the artist's life, where he expresses a deep love for art while simultaneously navigating a world filled with betrayal and danger. The contrast between 'cuento con balas' (I count on bullets) and 'tú cuentas con Dios' (you count on God) highlights the stark differences in coping mechanisms and survival strategies. This juxtaposition paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of street life, where trust is scarce, and self-reliance is paramount.
González also touches on the theme of personal growth and transformation. He reflects on his past as a carefree youth ('me gustaba andar de vago') and contrasts it with his current, more calculated approach to life. The lyrics suggest a maturation process, where he now carefully considers his actions and associations. The mention of 'tintas en cuaderno, tintas en mi piel' (ink in my notebook, ink on my skin) symbolizes the permanent marks left by his experiences, both in his art and on his body. This imagery reinforces the idea that his past has indelibly shaped his present and future.
The song 'Vagancia' is a powerful narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the harsh realities of street life. It captures the essence of a life lived on the edge, where every decision is a matter of survival and every experience leaves a lasting impact.