Ausencia

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Ausencia' delves into the profound and multifaceted nature of absence. The lyrics poetically explore how absence can manifest in various forms, from the forgetfulness that clouds memories and dreams to the haunting presence that lingers like a ghost. Rodriguez uses rich metaphors to describe absence as something that can both imprison and liberate, illustrating its complex impact on the human soul.

The song opens with the idea that some absences are akin to forgetfulness, obscuring the dawns and seeds that are lost in their own seas, never to find the shore. This imagery suggests a sense of loss and disorientation, where the things that once held promise are now adrift and unreachable. The metaphor of butterflies, jealous of space and imprisoned by flowers, further emphasizes the delicate and elusive nature of absence, which can offer sweetness yet remain unattainable.

Rodriguez personifies absence as a 'remote ghost' that violates doors, sings, and screams to the sky, carrying a voice that perpetually reminds us of distance. This personification gives absence a tangible presence, making it an active force that shapes our experiences and emotions. The song also touches on the hopeful aspects of absence, describing it as seagulls that save us, transcending borders and seasons, and drawing faith with their crayons. These lines suggest that absence can also inspire hope and a vision of a brighter future, filling our lives with color and possibility.

'Ausencia' is a poignant reflection on the dual nature of absence, capturing both its sorrowful and hopeful dimensions. Through his evocative lyrics, Silvio Rodriguez invites listeners to contemplate the ways in which absence shapes our lives, memories, and aspirations.