Vieja Mirada Mía

José Larralde's 'Vieja Mirada Mía' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, the wisdom gained through life experiences, and the deep connection to one's roots. The song's lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors that evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the simplicity of the past. Larralde's use of phrases like 'trigos pesados de medio día' (heavy midday wheat) and 'viejos berrales' (old mudflats) paints a vivid picture of a rural landscape that is both timeless and deeply personal.

The song delves into the lessons learned from life, particularly the values instilled by previous generations. Larralde questions the nature of teaching and learning, pondering who taught him not to touch the neighbor's fruit and who taught the neighbor to teach him. This introspection highlights the complexities of moral education and the transmission of values. The lyrics suggest that it is easier to teach someone to teach than to teach someone to learn, hinting at the challenges and responsibilities of imparting wisdom.

'Vieja Mirada Mía' also explores the theme of solitude and the beauty found in simple, everyday moments. Larralde's request to be returned to 'la soledad de la simpleza' (the solitude of simplicity) and 'los barriales limpios' (clean mudflats) reflects a desire to reconnect with the unadorned and pure aspects of life. The song's closing lines, which mention finding forgiveness when looking at God creating the dawn, add a spiritual dimension, suggesting a reconciliation with the past and an acceptance of life's cyclical nature.