Quería Saber

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Quería Saber' is a poetic exploration of curiosity, self-discovery, and the human desire to understand the world and oneself. The repeated phrase 'Quería saber' (I wanted to know) serves as a mantra, emphasizing the relentless pursuit of knowledge and meaning. Rodriguez, a renowned Cuban singer-songwriter known for his profound and often philosophical lyrics, uses this song to delve into the existential questions that drive human experience.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey, both literal and metaphorical. The protagonist sets out early in the morning, symbolizing a new beginning or a quest for enlightenment. The imagery of stars ('luceros') and the horizon suggests a search for something beyond the immediate, a longing to reach a distant, perhaps unattainable, goal. The mention of Caronte (Charon, the ferryman of Hades in Greek mythology) hints at the inevitability of death and the unknown, adding a layer of existential contemplation to the journey.

Throughout the song, Rodriguez reflects on the roles one might play in life—grumete (cabin boy), marinero (sailor), timonel (helmsman), or pescador (fisherman). These roles symbolize different paths and identities one might assume in the quest for understanding. The lyrics also touch on the transformation of the impossible into the true, suggesting that through the pursuit of knowledge and experience, one can transcend limitations and achieve a deeper understanding of reality. The song's repetitive structure and contemplative tone invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the questions that drive them.