Heces

Susana Baca's song 'Heces' is a poignant exploration of deep emotional turmoil and regret. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a rainy afternoon in Lima, where the weather mirrors the singer's inner sorrow. The rain, a common metaphor for sadness and cleansing, sets the stage for a reflection on past mistakes and the heavy burden of guilt. The repeated line 'Esta tarde llueve, como nunca; y no tengo ganas de vivir, corazón' (This afternoon it rains, like never before; and I have no desire to live, my heart) underscores the depth of the singer's despair.

The song delves into the complexities of human emotions, juxtaposing the sweetness of the afternoon with the bitterness of regret. The imagery of 'cavernas crueles de mi ingratitud' (cruel caverns of my ingratitude) and 'mi bloque de hielo sobre su amapola' (my block of ice over her poppy) suggests a cold, unfeeling response to someone's warmth and affection. This contrast highlights the singer's realization of their own harshness and the pain it has caused. The 'violent black flowers' and 'enormous stone' symbolize the destructive actions and words that have led to a 'glacial stretch' in the relationship.

As the song progresses, the singer acknowledges the dignity and silence of the person they have wronged, recognizing that their own actions have brought about this painful separation. The finality of the situation is emphasized with the 'burning oils' that mark the end. The presence of the owl, a symbol of wisdom and introspection, suggests that the singer is now reflecting deeply on their past behavior. The song concludes with a sense of overwhelming sadness, as the rain continues to pour and the singer's heart remains heavy with sorrow.