En Mi Calle

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'En Mi Calle' paints a vivid picture of a quiet, almost melancholic street that serves as a backdrop for deep introspection. The lyrics describe a gray sidewalk where gazes stick, hinting at a sense of aimlessness or contemplation among the people who walk there. This street is not just a physical place but a metaphorical space where the singer reflects on life, memories, and existential questions. The long, white marble bench symbolizes a resting place, perhaps for the weary soul, suggesting a final destination or a place of reflection.

The song's imagery of high, white windows looking up to the sky evokes a sense of isolation and distance from the world. The people on this street do not speak; they merely look at each other with fear, indicating a lack of communication and connection. This could be a commentary on modern urban life, where despite being surrounded by people, individuals often feel alone and disconnected. The singer's musings about not living in the city and reminiscing about a dirty tree where he used to play as a child add a layer of nostalgia and longing for simpler, more innocent times.

As the song progresses, the singer questions his own existence, asking why he is looking, singing, living, crying, loving, and dying. These existential questions highlight the human condition's complexity and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. 'En Mi Calle' is a poignant reflection on life, memory, and the silent struggles that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of city life. Silvio Rodriguez's poetic lyrics and evocative imagery invite listeners to ponder their own lives and the streets they walk every day.