Lo que Quisiste Ser

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Lo que Quisiste Ser' delves into the theme of disillusionment and the loss of one's true self. The lyrics are a poignant exploration of how individuals can drift away from their authentic selves, often due to societal pressures, personal failures, or the passage of time. Rodriguez uses a series of reflective questions and vivid imagery to convey a sense of longing and regret for what once was or could have been.

The song opens with a series of existential questions, pondering what it takes for a human being to remain true to themselves. Rodriguez questions the distance between his own hand and the people he once knew, symbolizing the growing gap between his current self and his past connections. The mention of a 'bufón' (jester) filling the space where love once existed suggests that superficiality and pretense have replaced genuine emotions and relationships. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which continues to explore themes of lost authenticity and the masks people wear to navigate life.

In the second verse, Rodriguez uses the metaphor of his eyes becoming air and thinking of the sea to express a sense of emptiness and longing. The sea, often a symbol of vastness and depth, contrasts with the 'dibujo del amor' (drawing of love) that lacks color, indicating a faded or superficial version of what love once was. The repeated phrase 'no eres ya lo que quisiste ser' (you are no longer what you wanted to be) serves as a lament for the lost potential and the divergence from one's true path.

The final verse brings a sense of resignation and melancholy. Rodriguez observes how the arms that once carried the adornments of life have forgotten their history of new beginnings ('una historia de amanecer'). The shift from 'magia humana' (human magic) to playing another role highlights the loss of genuine human connection in favor of superficial appearances. The song closes with a poignant reflection on whether this transformation is born out of desperation or humble resignation, leaving the listener to ponder the complexities of identity and self-fulfillment.