Según El Color
Rubén Blades
The Colors of Perception: Rubén Blades' 'Según El Color'
Rubén Blades' song 'Según El Color' delves into the subjectivity of human experience and the relativity of perspectives. The lyrics suggest that life's events and circumstances are interpreted differently by each individual, depending on their personal situation and outlook. The chorus, which translates to 'Everything depends on the color of the glass through which it is viewed,' serves as a metaphor for the lenses through which we see the world. These 'glasses' are colored by our unique experiences, emotions, and socio-economic status, leading to a diversity of interpretations and reactions to the same reality.
The verses of the song contrast the lives of different people, highlighting the disparities in wealth and happiness. While some characters in the song are struggling, others are enjoying life, partying and dancing. This juxtaposition emphasizes the inequality that exists within society and how it shapes our views. The mention of a rich man discarding bread that a poorer person gratefully collects further illustrates the stark differences in people's lives and perspectives.
Blades' lyrics also touch upon the idea that everyone carries their own world in their mind, suggesting that each person's reality is unique and deeply personal. The song encourages listeners to understand and accept the diversity of opinions and experiences without judgment. It's a call for empathy and the recognition that what may be trivial for one person could be significant for another. The song's message is universal and timeless, resonating with the idea that there is no single truth, but rather a multitude of individual truths shaped by our personal 'colors.'