El Mendigo en el Andén

The song 'El Mendigo en el Andén' by Serú Girán, a prominent Argentine rock band known for its profound lyrics and complex musical compositions, delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and existential despair. The title itself, which translates to 'The Beggar on the Platform,' sets a somber tone, suggesting a narrative of abandonment and waiting.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person likened to a beggar, perennially stationed on a train platform of a ghost town where no trains pass. This metaphor powerfully conveys feelings of stagnation and hopelessness, as the protagonist waits for something or someone that never arrives. The reference to a 'carnival serpentine' and a 'crystal prison' further enhances the imagery of a festive yet confining life, indicating a contrast between outward celebrations and inner confinement.

The recurring lines 'Si así fue, seguro así será' which means 'If it was so, it surely will be so,' resonate with a sense of inevitability and resignation. The protagonist acknowledges the unchanging nature of their situation, yet there remains a plea for rescue, as repeated in the lines 'Yo sé que puedes sacarme' or 'I know you can take me out.' This juxtaposition of despair with a glimmer of hope reflects a universal human experience, making the song relatable and poignant.