Por El Camino de Mieres

Victor Manuel's song 'Por El Camino de Mieres' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the changes that come with it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey through the region of Mieres, capturing the essence of rural life amidst mountains and villages. The imagery of the 'puente de la perra' and the 'río muerto' evokes a sense of longing and loss, as the narrator wishes to see the once-clear waters of the river again. This metaphor of the 'río muerto' symbolizes the stagnation and decay that has taken over what was once vibrant and alive.

The song also delves into themes of love and emotional turmoil. The lines '¿por qué dices que me quieres / Y si falto no me extrañas?' express a deep sense of betrayal and heartache. The narrator questions the sincerity of a lover's affection, highlighting the pain of unreciprocated love. This emotional struggle is further emphasized by the plea 'No me robaras el alma,' indicating a desire to protect oneself from further emotional harm.

In the final verses, Victor Manuel laments the loss of the industrial past of Mieres. The absence of the 'run run del tren de chapa' and the 'sirena de la fábrica' signifies the end of an era of prosperity and abundance. The song captures the silence and emptiness left behind, as the once-thriving community now faces decline. The reference to 'Señor san xuan' and the celebration of the bonfire ('foguera') adds a cultural layer, symbolizing a time of festivity and unity that contrasts sharply with the current desolation. Through 'Por El Camino de Mieres,' Victor Manuel masterfully intertwines personal and communal nostalgia, creating a powerful narrative of change and loss.