El Ausente

The song 'El Ausente' by Pastor Lopez is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of regret, separation, and the enduring bond between a mother and her son. The lyrics tell the story of an elderly woman who is seen every morning desperately asking about her son, unaware that he has been imprisoned and labeled as 'Reo Ausente,' which translates to 'Absent Prisoner.' The son, from his cell, expresses a deep longing to see his mother, to kiss her eyes that have cried so much because of him, and to imprint her blessed face in his memory, acknowledging that he has caused her sorrow and left her alone.

The song's chorus, where the son addresses the judge, is a plea not for forgiveness or excuses but for the chance to see his mother one last time. This request highlights the son's remorse and the pain of their separation. The repetition of the line 'Es de noche y en su celda se oye un lamento' ('It is night and in his cell, a lament is heard') emphasizes the loneliness and despair that the son feels in the darkness of his cell, reflecting on his actions and their consequences.

'El Ausente' is a reflection on the human condition, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes ('Nadie está libre / Todos tropezamos') and must face the consequences. The song also touches on the theme of redemption, as the son vows to pay for his wrongdoings and promises to be by his mother's side, to adore and never leave her again. The emotional weight of the song is carried by Pastor Lopez's delivery, which is typical of his style, often characterized by its blend of cumbia and vallenato rhythms that evoke a sense of nostalgia and deep emotion.