Cancion Del Elegido

Silvio Rodríguez's 'Cancion Del Elegido' is a profound and poetic narrative that transcends the ordinary to explore themes of existence, discovery, and conflict. The song begins by setting itself apart from typical stories of old men and children, instead focusing on a being from another world, an 'animal de galaxia.' This being's journey is cosmic, tied to the very course of the Milky Way, suggesting a quest that is both grand and deeply existential.

The lyrics describe the being's birth from a storm in the night, a metaphor for a tumultuous and extraordinary beginning. This being travels from planet to planet, searching for potable water, life, or perhaps death, embodying a quest for meaning and purpose. The search for 'siluetas' or something 'adorable' and 'querible' reflects a deep yearning for connection and affection, highlighting the universal human desire for love and acceptance.

The narrative takes a turn when the being discovers that the legendary mines of King Solomon are not in Africa but in the sky, a metaphor for the realization that true wealth and value are not material but spiritual and emotional. However, the coldness of the jewels contrasts with the warmth and joy the being seeks, leading to a disillusionment with material wealth. The being's descent to Earth and subsequent involvement in war symbolizes a harsh confrontation with reality. The realization that 'la guerra era la paz del futuro' (war was the peace of the future) underscores the paradoxical and often brutal nature of human progress. The final image of the being, content and naked, fighting with a 'cañón de futuro' (cannon of the future), encapsulates a sense of tragic heroism and the relentless pursuit of a better world, despite the inherent violence and sacrifice involved.