Reino de Tadavía

Silvio Rodriguez's 'Reino de Todavía' is a poetic exploration of the complexities and contradictions of modern life, particularly within the context of Cuban society. The song's title, which translates to 'Kingdom of Still,' suggests a realm of ongoing uncertainty and unresolved issues. Rodriguez uses vivid imagery and metaphors to depict a world in constant flux, where societal norms and political ideologies are continually questioned and redefined.

The lyrics open with a description of a planetary angle spinning and impacting the walls of infinity, symbolizing the relentless passage of time and the inevitable changes it brings. This cosmic imagery sets the stage for a deeper examination of societal pressures and historical cycles, as Rodriguez references the 'antecedents of cyclones' and the 'mischief of time.' These lines suggest that the turbulence of the past continues to influence the present, creating a sense of perpetual motion and instability.

Rodriguez also delves into the generational divide, contrasting the moralistic attitudes of the older generation with the more liberated and experimental spirit of the younger generation. He poignantly describes the disillusionment of both groups, highlighting the universal struggle to find meaning and direction in a rapidly changing world. The recurring mention of 'balseros, navidades, absolutismo' (rafters, Christmases, absolutism) and 'bautismos, testamentos, odio y ternura' (baptisms, testaments, hate and tenderness) underscores the coexistence of hope and despair, tradition and change.

The song's most striking commentary comes in its repeated lines about communism: 'Nadie sabe qué cosa es el comunismo' (Nobody knows what communism is). This statement reflects the confusion and ambiguity surrounding political ideologies, suggesting that they can be both a source of censorship and a potential path to fortune. Rodriguez ultimately concludes that the true nature of these ideologies remains elusive, encapsulated in the 'Reino de Todavía,' a metaphorical kingdom where nothing is certain, and everything is still in the process of becoming.