Tengo 17 Años
Rocío Durcal
The Tumultuous Journey of Adolescence in 'Tengo 17 Años'
Rocío Durcal's song 'Tengo 17 Años' captures the essence of teenage angst and the tumultuous journey of adolescence. The lyrics reflect the confusion, frustration, and emotional turbulence that often accompany this stage of life. The repeated phrase 'No me entienden' (They don't understand me) highlights the common feeling among teenagers of being misunderstood by the world around them. This sentiment is further emphasized by the singer's declaration that she doesn't want to be understood, suggesting a desire for independence and self-discovery.
The song also explores the theme of identity and the search for self. The lines 'Si me volvere una piedra / Si me volvere un clavel / Si me volvere una dama / Si me casare con el' (If I become a stone / If I become a carnation / If I become a lady / If I marry him) illustrate the various possibilities and paths that lie ahead for the young protagonist. These metaphors represent the different roles and identities she could assume, reflecting the uncertainty and fluidity of adolescence.
The recurring refrain 'Tengo 17 años / Que enfermedad si, si, si, si / Cuando tenga 18 / Se me curara' (I am 17 years old / What a sickness, yes, yes, yes, yes / When I turn 18 / It will be cured) encapsulates the hope and belief that the struggles of adolescence are temporary. The idea that turning 18 will bring a cure to her 'sickness' symbolizes the transition to adulthood and the expectation that maturity will bring clarity and resolution to her current turmoil. This reflects a common belief among teenagers that adulthood will provide answers and stability, even though the reality may be more complex.