Los Locos y Los Niños

Silvina Garre's song "Los Locos y Los Niños" delves into the profound and often overlooked wisdom found in madness and childhood. The song opens with the image of a local madman who claims to be God, suggesting that his madness might hold more truth than the so-called sanity of others. This character, with his eccentric behavior and mysterious presence, symbolizes a deeper understanding of life that transcends conventional norms. The juxtaposition of summer and night, along with the madman's aged appearance, creates a vivid picture of a person who sees beyond the ordinary.

The chorus emphasizes the connection between madness and childhood, portraying them as two sides of the same coin. Both states of being offer glimpses into infinity and truth, challenging the listener to reconsider their perceptions of reality. The warning to the child not to go to the river before dawn speaks to the dangers of venturing into the unknown without guidance, hinting at the delicate balance between curiosity and caution.

As the song progresses, it highlights society's tendency to dismiss or even eliminate those who deviate from the norm. The madman leaves behind a piece of his wisdom, symbolized by a fragment of his wings and a starry sky, urging the narrator to keep this gift a secret. This act underscores the value of unconventional wisdom and the importance of preserving it. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on how society views madness and childhood: while both are seen as forms of truth, they are often suppressed or outgrown. The repeated lines about killing the mad and children growing up serve as a stark reminder of the loss of innocence and the suppression of unconventional wisdom in the face of societal expectations.