Autos, Jets, Aviones, Barcos
Serú Girán
A World in Motion: The Exodus in 'Autos, Jets, Aviones, Barcos'
Serú Girán's song 'Autos, Jets, Aviones, Barcos' captures a sense of mass exodus and movement, reflecting a world where people are constantly on the move. The repetition of the phrase 'Se está yendo todo el mundo' (Everyone is leaving) underscores a collective departure, suggesting a significant shift or upheaval. The imagery of various modes of transportation—cars, jets, planes, and boats—emphasizes the scale and urgency of this migration, painting a picture of a world in flux.
The mention of the Southern Cross changing its course and the Sun greeting new vagabonds adds a cosmic dimension to the song, hinting at a broader, perhaps even existential, change. The Southern Cross, a constellation visible in the Southern Hemisphere, symbolizes guidance and direction. Its change in course could signify a loss of direction or a new path being forged. The Sun greeting new vagabonds suggests a fresh start or a new beginning for those who are leaving, but it also implies that the world they are leaving behind is becoming increasingly empty.
Serú Girán, known for their sophisticated rock and poignant lyrics, often tackled social and political issues in their music. This song can be interpreted as a commentary on the socio-political climate of Argentina during the late 1970s and early 1980s, a period marked by political instability and economic hardship. The sense of urgency and movement in the song reflects the real-life experiences of many Argentinians who felt compelled to leave their homeland in search of better opportunities or safety. The song's repetitive structure and haunting melody reinforce the feeling of inevitability and the relentless passage of time, making 'Autos, Jets, Aviones, Barcos' a powerful reflection on displacement and change.