Gracias A La Vida Lyrics In English
Ever hear a song that just… gets you? Even if you don't speak the language? Chances are, you’ve stumbled upon the magic of Gracias A La Vida. It is an anthem of gratitude that transcends borders.
A Song of Thanks: But What Are They Saying?
So, you’re humming along to this beautiful melody, feeling all the feels. But, like many of us, you might be thinking, "Okay, I know it sounds lovely, but what are they actually thanking life *for*?" Let's dive into the English translation of those iconic lyrics!
Eyes That See, Feet That Walk
The song opens with a simple yet profound acknowledgment: "Thanks to life, that has given me so much." What follows is a laundry list of the seemingly ordinary things we often take for granted.
Think about it: "It has given me two eyes, and when I open them, I can perfectly distinguish black from white." It's easy to overlook the simple gift of sight, isn't it?
Then there’s the mention of "feet to walk with." No soaring metaphors here. Just a genuine appreciation for the ability to move through the world.
Ears That Hear, Words That Speak
It's not just about seeing and moving; it's about connecting. "Thanks to life, that has given me ears, that perfectly hear." Hearing music, laughter, the wind in the trees – what a treasure!
And then, "a tongue that can speak, and with it sing." The power to communicate, to express yourself, to create beauty with your voice. It’s a pretty big deal when you consider it. Violeta Parra emphasizes the ability to express gratitude itself.
The Heart That Feels
Now things get a little deeper. The lyrics talk about the heart, that trembles when it looks at fruit, luminous, and red." It’s not just about *having* a heart, but about feeling the simple joys of existence.
Imagine biting into a perfectly ripe strawberry on a sunny day. That's the kind of sensory pleasure Gracias A La Vida is celebrating.
Laughter and Tears: The Full Spectrum
Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, and the song acknowledges this beautifully. It mentions laughter and tears, recognizing that both are essential parts of the human experience.
It expresses appreciation for “laughter and sleep," acknowledging the importance of both joy and rest. It also acknowledges “two materials that form my song," hinting at the joys and sorrows that fuel creativity.
The Big Picture: Beyond the Individual
The final verses broaden the scope, focusing on the bigger picture of humanity. The lyrics give thanks "to life that has given me so much. It has given me the march of nations…" It's about recognizing our place in the world.
It emphasizes seeing "the good so far from me," This means appreciating the progress and achievements of societies and cultures beyond our own immediate circle.
Finally, the song describes recognizing “the architect who has worked in the vulgar." This suggests appreciating the beauty and ingenuity found in everyday, ordinary life.
More Than Just Words: Why It Resonates
So why does *Gracias A La Vida* hit so hard? Perhaps it's the simple, unpretentious language. Violeta Parra's words are direct and heartfelt, avoiding flowery metaphors in favor of raw emotion.
Maybe it’s the universality of the message. Gratitude is a feeling that transcends cultures and languages. Gracias A La Vida reminds us that even in the face of hardship, there is always something to be thankful for.
Or maybe it’s just a darn good song! No matter the reason, one thing is clear: Gracias A La Vida is more than just a collection of words. It's a reminder to appreciate the beauty and wonder of everyday existence, even when life throws us curveballs. It is a timeless message sung with passion and sincerity.
