Tiempo y siléncio

The song 'Tiempo y siléncio' by Cesaria Evora, a renowned Cape Verdean singer known for her emotive voice and soulful morna ballads, is a poetic exploration of love and intimacy. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that is both grounded and ethereal, with metaphors that evoke a sense of peace and a deep connection with nature. The opening lines describe a house in the sky and a garden in the sea, suggesting a love that transcends the ordinary and creates its own universe.

The chorus, 'Tiempo y silencio' (Time and Silence), juxtaposes two elements that are essential in a relationship. Time represents the moments shared, the growth and the journey of love, while silence symbolizes the unspoken understanding and the quiet moments of togetherness that are just as important as the spoken words. The song continues to weave this duality through contrasting imagery such as 'Gritos y cantos' (Screams and Songs) and 'Voz y quebranto' (Voice and Heartbreak), highlighting the range of emotions that love encompasses.

Evora's lyrics delve into the lifecycle of love, from birth in laughter to growth in tears, living on one's back, and dying in one's arms. This progression signifies the complete immersion in the partner's life and emotions, suggesting that love is an all-encompassing experience that shapes one's existence. The song's essence lies in the beauty of these shared experiences, the silent understandings, and the passage of time that love weathers, ultimately painting a portrait of a profound and enduring bond.