Érase Una Vez

The song 'Érase Una Vez' by Paco Ibañez is a poetic reflection on the inversion of traditional roles and expectations. The title, which translates to 'Once Upon a Time,' immediately sets the stage for a narrative that is both familiar and fantastical, reminiscent of the opening lines of fairy tales. However, Ibañez's lyrics quickly subvert the classic tropes by presenting characters who defy their usual archetypes.

The 'lobito bueno' (good little wolf) who is mistreated by the sheep inverts the expected predator-prey relationship, suggesting a world where innocence is found in unexpected places and where the ones usually seen as vulnerable can be the oppressors. Similarly, the 'príncipe malo' (bad prince), 'bruja hermosa' (beautiful witch), and 'pirata honrado' (honorable pirate) all challenge the stereotypes of their roles, painting a picture of a world where nothing is as it seems, and where traditional moral judgments are called into question.

The repetition of these scenarios 'cuando yo soñaba' (when I dreamed) implies a longing for a world where the rigid structures of stories and perhaps society itself are more fluid and open to interpretation. Ibañez, known for his political and social commentary through music, may be using this dreamlike narrative to critique the status quo and to encourage listeners to imagine a world where roles are not predetermined by societal norms. The song becomes a canvas for exploring themes of justice, identity, and the power of imagination to reshape our understanding of the world.