El Tiempo

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'El Tiempo' is a poetic exploration of the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The recurring imagery of weaving and looms serves as a powerful metaphor for the interconnectedness of generations and the continuous flow of existence. The song opens with the lines 'Naciste en un telar / tu padre es tejedor / tus hijos tejerán,' which translates to 'You were born in a loom / your father is a weaver / your children will weave.' This sets the stage for a narrative that emphasizes the inherited and ongoing nature of life's work and experiences.

Throughout the song, Rodriguez uses the act of weaving as a symbol for various aspects of life. For instance, 'Alguien tejió el sol / con calma de mujer' ('Someone wove the sun / with the calm of a woman') suggests that even the most fundamental elements of our world are crafted with care and intention. The repetition of 'y el tiempo cae / cae / cae' ('and time falls / falls / falls') underscores the relentless and inevitable passage of time, reminding listeners that while we weave our lives, time continues to move forward.

The song also touches on the idea of learning and growth through the act of weaving. 'Tejer es aprender / a hilar y deshilar / tejer es continuar' ('To weave is to learn / to spin and unspin / to weave is to continue') highlights the process of making and unmaking as a form of education and perseverance. This reflects a broader philosophical view that life is a continuous process of creation, destruction, and renewal. Rodriguez's lyrical craftsmanship in 'El Tiempo' invites listeners to reflect on their own roles in the tapestry of life and the enduring impact of their actions across time.