Xabier

The song 'Xabier' by Russian Red, the stage name of Spanish indie and folk singer-songwriter Lourdes Hernández, is a poignant reflection on the evolution of a romantic relationship and the longing for its early, more passionate days. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that began with intense emotion and a sense of discovery, as indicated by the 'smile' that was once 'perfect' and the 'truthful sight of a real man.' However, as time passes, the narrator expresses a yearning for the innocence and fervor of a 'young boy who's never loved before,' suggesting a desire to recapture the freshness and intensity that has since faded.

The second verse reminisces about the couple's adventures, highlighting the spontaneity and excitement that characterized their early relationship. The imagery of 'endless' walks, 'rented cars,' and 'jacuzzis' evokes a sense of freedom and youthful exuberance. The 'cloudy lights' and 'noisy weddings' symbolize the vibrant life they once shared, now seemingly obscured by the passage of time. The song's mood is tinged with nostalgia, as the narrator looks back on these memories with both fondness and a hint of sorrow.

In the final lines, the narrator observes 'Xabier' walking 'like a stranger,' which could signify the growing distance between the two, as the familiarity and intimacy that once defined their relationship have given way to a sense of alienation. The reference to their clothes being 'strangers' and the 'rare costume of love' they pick each day suggests that the authenticity of their connection has been replaced by a series of roles or facades, further emphasizing the loss of the relationship's original essence.