Como Quien Dice

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Como Quien Dice' is a poetic exploration of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the singer's journey back into the past, where he revisits moments of joy, love, and melancholy. The opening lines, 'Hoy volví a bailar contigo, volví a enseñarte mis amigos,' suggest a return to a cherished memory, perhaps a dance with a loved one, symbolizing a reconnection with a significant part of his life.

The song continues to weave through various scenes and emotions, from the 'cantos de sinsontes' (songs of mockingbirds) to the 'sol en la ventana' (sun in the window), evoking a sense of serene mornings and fulfilled desires. These images create a tapestry of sensory experiences that highlight the beauty and simplicity of past moments. The mention of 'sábanas saciadas' (satiated sheets) hints at intimate and contented times, further deepening the emotional resonance of the song.

As the song progresses, Rodriguez delves into more complex themes of destiny and identity. The lines 'Hoy volví a tener destino del torpe caminante, de sueños enemigos, de idioma navegante, de rey de mendigos, de rey y de mendigo' reflect a journey marked by struggle, dreams, and a duality of existence. The final verse, 'Hoy volví de entre los muertos silbando extraño tu canción, tirando notas y recuerdos como quien dice un adiós,' poignantly captures the act of letting go, as the singer metaphorically returns from the dead, whistling a familiar tune, and scattering memories like a farewell. This ending encapsulates the bittersweet nature of reminiscing, where joy and sorrow coexist.