Caballo negro
Rolando Alárcon
The Mystical Journey of the Black Horse
Rolando Alárcon's song 'Caballo negro' is a poetic and evocative piece that delves into themes of freedom, mystery, and the passage of time. The black horse in the song symbolizes a majestic and enigmatic figure, galloping freely through the night. The imagery of the horse running 'tranquilo al viento' (calmly in the wind) suggests a sense of peace and liberation, which brings joy to the observer's heart.
As the song progresses, the night becomes a significant character, searching for the black horse and bringing with it a 'manto de estrellas' (mantle of stars). This celestial imagery adds a layer of mysticism to the narrative, as the observer's eyes fill with tears, perhaps signifying a sense of longing or loss. The night and the stars could represent the unknown or the afterlife, where the horse will eventually find its place.
The lyrics also touch on the journey and the paths the black horse has traveled. The 'ancha senda de nubes' (wide path of clouds) and 'senderos llenos de cruces' (paths full of crosses) suggest a life filled with both beauty and hardship. The mention of 'alas de plata' (silver wings) in the sky hints at a transcendental transformation, where the horse will find peace and solace. The final lines, where the horse is promised a 'estrella morena' (dark star) to calm its pain, encapsulate the song's blend of melancholy and hope, portraying the horse's journey as one of both struggle and ultimate serenity.
Alárcon's use of rich, symbolic language and the haunting melody create a deeply emotional and reflective experience, inviting listeners to ponder the mysteries of life, freedom, and the passage of time.