Para cobrar altura
Victor Heredia
The Eternal Longing in 'Para cobrar altura'
Victor Heredia's song 'Para cobrar altura' is a poignant exploration of longing, memory, and the desire for transcendence. The lyrics are imbued with a deep sense of yearning to become one with the elements—time, wind, ash, earth, and silence. This desire to transform into these natural elements symbolizes a wish to escape the constraints of human existence and achieve a form of eternal presence and connection with a loved one.
The repeated imagery of becoming wind, ash, and silence suggests a longing to be everywhere and nowhere at once, to be a part of the natural world in a way that transcends physical limitations. The line 'para cobrar altura' (to gain height) metaphorically represents the aspiration to rise above earthly concerns and attain a higher state of being. This is further emphasized by the desire to be 'ceniza' (ash) and be scattered by the wind, symbolizing a wish to be free and omnipresent.
Heredia's use of the guitar as a symbol of emotional expression is particularly striking. The phrase 'hecha sangre en mi guitarra' (made blood in my guitar) conveys the deep emotional pain and passion that the artist channels through his music. The guitar becomes a vessel for his sorrow and longing, transforming personal grief into a universal expression of love and loss. This connection between music and emotion highlights the cathartic power of art to process and express profound feelings.
The song's lyrical depth is enhanced by its cultural context. Victor Heredia, an Argentine singer-songwriter, is known for his poignant and socially conscious music. His work often reflects themes of love, loss, and social justice, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar struggles. 'Para cobrar altura' is a testament to Heredia's ability to capture the essence of human emotion and the universal desire for connection and transcendence.