Cita con Ángeles

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Cita con Ángeles' is a poignant reflection on the presence of guardian angels throughout human history, particularly during moments of profound tragedy and injustice. The lyrics weave a narrative that spans various historical events, suggesting that these celestial beings are witnesses to humanity's darkest hours. From the burning of Giordano Bruno to the assassination of Federico García Lorca, and from the bombing of Hiroshima to the fall of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, Rodriguez paints a vivid picture of angels who are powerless to prevent these calamities but are ever-present, mourning alongside humanity.

The song employs rich metaphors and cultural references to convey its message. For instance, the 'angel a caballo' (angel on horseback) who falls 'con los pobres de la tierra' (with the poor of the earth) is a clear reference to José Martí, a Cuban national hero. Similarly, the mention of an angel 'vistiéndose de luto' (dressing in mourning) and 'llorando' (crying) for Martin Luther King Jr. underscores the sorrow and helplessness felt in the face of such monumental losses. The imagery of angels 'pintan adioses a las guerras' (painting farewells to wars) with 'lápices de nubes' (pencils of clouds) further emphasizes the futility of their efforts to bring peace in a world dominated by violence and hatred.

Rodriguez's lyrics also pose a critical question about the role and effectiveness of these guardian angels. Are they 'incompetentes' (incompetent), or is it that 'no hay forma de ayudarnos' (there is no way to help us)? This introspective query challenges listeners to reflect on their own actions and the collective responsibility of humanity. The song concludes with a call to be 'un tilín mejores y mucho menos egoístas' (a little better and much less selfish), suggesting that the true path to salvation lies within ourselves, rather than in divine intervention.