Tabaco

Roberto Goyeneche's song 'Tabaco' is a poignant exploration of regret, longing, and the haunting presence of past mistakes. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man tormented by the memory of a lost love, whose voice emerges from the shadows like a distant reproach. This voice, which both cries and names him, intensifies the sense of guilt and sorrow that pervades the song. The imagery of closed eyes and a heart torn apart by the inability to forgive oneself underscores the depth of the protagonist's emotional turmoil.

The chorus reveals the extent of his longing, as he laments the absence of his lover's hands and the paradox of feeling her presence so near yet so far. The act of smoking becomes a metaphor for his obsession, with the smoke forming her figure and the aroma of the tobacco evoking her fragrance. This sensory experience converses with him about the distances between them, her forgetfulness, and his madness. The juxtaposition of her happiness with his suffering adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the disparity in their emotional states.

The song's second verse delves deeper into the protagonist's anguish, likening his experience to a nightmare from which he awakens trembling. The imagery of wilted violets symbolizes the decay of his emotional state, while his sobbing eyes and closed eyes reflect his ongoing struggle with silence and remorse. The repetition of his heart being torn apart by his inability to forgive himself for the harm he caused reinforces the central theme of regret. 'Tabaco' is a masterful portrayal of the enduring pain of lost love and the relentless grip of guilt.