Qué se Puede Hacer Con el Amor?

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Qué se Puede Hacer Con el Amor?' delves into the universal and timeless nature of love, exploring how it transcends societal norms, geographical boundaries, and generational divides. The song's recurring question, 'What can be done with love?' suggests a sense of inevitability and powerlessness in the face of love's force. Rodriguez uses vivid storytelling to illustrate love's persistence and resilience, regardless of the circumstances or obstacles it faces.

In the first verse, Rodriguez paints a picture of young love in Havana, where a girl waits for her high school sweetheart despite her parents' disapproval. This scenario highlights the rebellious and passionate nature of youthful love, which often defies parental and societal expectations. The imagery of the girl shortening her already short skirt symbolizes a desire to break free from constraints and embrace her feelings fully.

The second verse shifts to Spain, where two lovers meet secretly in a church after a sermon about sin. This juxtaposition of religious doctrine and personal desire underscores the conflict between societal norms and individual emotions. The lovers' decision to follow their hearts despite the moral teachings they have just heard emphasizes love's ability to override external judgments and restrictions.

In the final verse, Rodriguez broadens the scope to a global perspective, acknowledging that love knows no boundaries. He describes lovers who hold hands across distances, defying prejudices and societal barriers. This universal portrayal of love as a unifying and uplifting force reinforces the idea that love is an intrinsic part of the human experience, capable of bringing happiness and fulfillment regardless of the challenges it faces.

Through 'Qué se Puede Hacer Con el Amor?', Silvio Rodriguez celebrates the enduring and transformative power of love, suggesting that it is an unstoppable force that enriches our lives and connects us all.