Por Qué Cantamos

Sandra Mihanovich's song "Por Qué Cantamos" is a powerful anthem that delves into the reasons behind why people sing, especially in the face of adversity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with sorrow, loss, and injustice. The opening lines, "Si cada hora viene con su muerte / Si el tiempo era una cueva de ladrones," set a somber tone, suggesting that every moment brings its own death and that time itself is a den of thieves. This imagery reflects a sense of despair and disillusionment with the world, where even the air in Buenos Aires is no longer as it once was, and life is reduced to a mere moving target.

Despite this bleak backdrop, the song repeatedly asks, "Usted preguntará por qué cantamos" (You may ask why we sing). The answer lies in the resilience and hope that singing represents. Mihanovich sings of the river that continues to flow, the nameless cruelty, and the destiny that does have a name. Singing becomes an act of defiance and a way to honor those who have suffered and those who continue to fight. It is a means to keep the memory of the lost alive and to inspire the living to keep going. The lyrics emphasize that singing is not just about expressing grief or anger but about believing in people and the possibility of overcoming defeat.

The song also highlights the connection between singing and nature, with references to rain on the furrow, the sun recognizing us, and the scent of spring in the fields. These natural elements symbolize renewal and the cyclical nature of life. Singing is portrayed as a fundamental part of being human, a way to connect with the world and each other. It is an assertion of life and a refusal to let the song turn to ashes. Through singing, Mihanovich conveys a message of hope, solidarity, and the enduring human spirit.