Buenos Dias Issel

Silvio Rodriguez's 'Buenos Dias Issel' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into the depths of longing, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sleepless night filled with intense emotions and vivid dreams. The narrator is caught in a state of exhaustion, both physically and emotionally, as he reminisces about a past love, Issel. The imagery of closed eyes, unresponsive fingers, and a tired brain sets the tone for a night of restless contemplation.

The song is rich with metaphors and sensory details that bring the listener into the narrator's world. The mention of the light in Issel's room going out symbolizes the end of a chapter, perhaps the end of their relationship. The narrator's fever and tear-filled eyes reflect his emotional turmoil, while the glowing guitar strings symbolize fleeting moments of clarity and inspiration. The dream sequence where the narrator and Issel walk together, barefoot and wet from the dead leaves, evokes a sense of nostalgia and lost innocence. Issel's constant smile and the fine rain that dresses them in water add layers of tenderness and vulnerability to the narrative.

As the night progresses, the narrator's fear and anxiety become more palpable. The mention of a torrent descending from the sky and the invocation of 'Alá' add a mystical and almost spiritual dimension to the song. The fear of waking up and the pain of returning to reality are expressed poignantly, making the listener feel the weight of the narrator's emotions. The song ends with a bittersweet 'Buenos dias Issel,' signifying the end of the night and the return to a reality that is both painful and inevitable. Rodriguez's poetic lyrics and evocative imagery make 'Buenos Dias Issel' a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time.