Soneto A Mamá

Joan Manuel Serrat's 'Soneto A Mamá' is a poignant reflection on the artist's relationship with his mother, infused with nostalgia and a deep sense of personal growth. The lyrics, structured as a sonnet, reveal a conversation or internal monologue directed towards his mother, explaining his absence not as a result of forgetting but as a consequence of life's journey and the lessons learned along the way.

The song begins with the artist acknowledging the familiar and comforting scents associated with his mother, such as thyme and cooking, which are powerful sensory memories. The distance, he suggests, provides clarity on life's journey, differentiating between those who simply 'walk' through life and those who 'travel' with purpose. Serrat uses the metaphor of green-eyed love and a deck of cards to convey life's unpredictability and the acceptance that some things, once lost, cannot be reclaimed. The ebb and flow of the tide further symbolizes the natural cycles of life and the inevitability of change.

In the final verses, Serrat shares wisdom that simplicity should not be mistaken for foolishness, and that value is not the same as price. He emphasizes that any moment can be treasured, and that if one's goals are love and light, the material world fades in importance. The repetition of the opening line at the end serves as a poignant closure, indicating that his journey has led him away from the path back home, yet the connection to his mother remains unbroken. 'Soneto A Mamá' is a touching homage that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of leaving home and the enduring bond with a parent.