El Viento
Manu Chao Lyrics

In Manu Chao’s song El Viento, he sings about the constant movements of life. “El Viento viene, el Viento se va” which means “The wind comes and goes” is a metaphor for how everything in life is temporary, including the good and the bad. The repetition of this line emphasizes this point further, as the wind may bring good things one day and bad things the next. The following line, “Por la frontera,” which means “Through the border,” suggests that these movements are not necessarily voluntary, but may be forced by political or social circumstances such as immigration, war or poverty.

Throughout the song, Chao highlights the theme of uncertainty and fleetingness that is associated with life. The line “El hambre viene, el hombre se va” which means “Hunger comes, the man leaves,” highlights how easily people in poor communities may be forced to migrate for a better life. The line “¿Cuándo volverá?” which means “When will it come back?” suggests a feeling of uncertainty and longing, questioning whether the good things will return.

The repetition of the line “Por la carretera,” which means “On the road,” further emphasizes the transient nature of life and how movement is a central theme. The road symbolizes the journey of life, where people move from one place to another in search of a better future or a better life. In addition, the use of the word “ruta Babylon” further focuses on the idea of displacement and uncertainty as Babylon is an ancient city that underwent various periods of destruction and displacement.