Sebastián

Rubén Blades' song "Sebastián" tells the poignant story of a man who is considered the local 'loco' or madman in his neighborhood. Sebastián is a character who, despite his eccentricities, is driven by a profound and touching dream. He washes cars and does odd jobs to make a living, but his heart is set on a fantastical love story with an imaginary girlfriend. This relationship, though not real, is deeply significant to him, and he often argues with her, showcasing his deep emotional investment in this figment of his imagination. His dream of being loved is symbolized by his desire to conquer the stars, a metaphor for achieving the impossible.

Sebastián's dream takes a tangible form as he begins to build a spaceship out of scrap materials like paper, tin, and cardboard. This spaceship represents his hope and determination to escape his harsh reality and take his imaginary girlfriend to a better place, far from their 'barrio de mierda' or 'shitty neighborhood.' The spaceship is a powerful symbol of his relentless pursuit of love and a better life, despite the odds stacked against him. His dream, however, is tinged with drama and tragedy, as he becomes increasingly entangled in his fantasies.

The climax of the song occurs when Sebastián, in a moment of delusion, sees a light in the sky and believes it to be his chance to reach the stars. He runs towards the sea, attempting to catch the light, and tragically drowns. The imagery of his makeshift spaceship and his cape of rags left on the dirty beach underscores the futility and heartbreak of his quest. His imaginary girlfriend remains eternally faithful, waiting by the sea, symbolizing the undying nature of his dream and the ultimate sacrifice he made. The recurring line, "Sólo las estrellas bastarán" (Only the stars will suffice), encapsulates Sebastián's unwavering belief that only something as grand as the stars could fulfill his dreams and desires.