Guitarra

Alfredo Zitarrosa's song 'Guitarra' is a poignant ode to the guitar, symbolizing both a personal and collective voice of expression. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the guitar as a living entity, waiting in the stillness of the night, embodying the deep, resonant voice of the people. The guitar's 'clamorous waist' and 'pregnant with sound' imagery suggest a powerful, almost maternal force, ready to give birth to music that carries the weight of communal emotions and stories.

The song delves into the guitar's journey, from the dark, cold cabarets to a place of liberation and purity. Zitarrosa's lyrics emphasize the guitar's transformation, shedding its 'slave's tailcoat' and rising above the vices of alcohol and drugs. This metamorphosis signifies a return to authenticity and a rejection of superficial pleasures, highlighting the guitar's role as a vessel for genuine, heartfelt expression. The call to 'clean its mouth of alcohol' and play 'your whole song' underscores the importance of purity and sincerity in music.

Zitarrosa's recitation of certain stanzas adds a layer of gravitas, reinforcing the guitar's elevated status. The repeated exhortation to the 'guitarrero' to play 'your whole song' speaks to the universal and timeless nature of music. It is a call to embrace the guitar's full potential, to express mature love, hope for the future, and the resilience to overcome barriers. The song is a celebration of the guitar's enduring spirit and its ability to convey profound human experiences, making it a powerful symbol of cultural and emotional expression.