Silvio Rodríguez's song 'Mi Unicornio Azul' (My Blue Unicorn) expresses a personal narrative that can be understood both as a literal account of losing something unique and precious, as symbolized by a blue unicorn, and metaphorically, as losing an idea, a dream, or a cherished belief. The recurrent theme revolves around the poignant sense of loss and the earnest search for the missing unicorn, which serves as a powerful vehicle for expressing longing and the pain of separation.
The emotional journey of 'Mi Unicornio Azul' begins with a feeling of sudden loss, described by Silvio Rodríguez with the simple and intimate revelation that his blue unicorn has vanished. The listener is immediately drawn into a world of innocence and fantasy, where the unicorn—a traditional symbol of purity and uniqueness—isn't just a figment of imagination but a tangible source of companionship and joy. This opening sets a melancholic tone as Rodríguez's tender and contemplative vocal delivery conveys a genuine sense of bereavement.
As the song progresses, Silvio Rodríguez discloses his deep connection to the unicorn, built on a foundation of love and truth. The mythical creature's role in creatively inspiring Rodríguez, 'fishing for a song' with its horn, suggests that the unicorn is also a muse, facilitating emotional and artistic expression. The disappearance of such a creature thus feels particularly debilitating, hinting at a disruption of creativity and a disturbance to the artist's inner peace.
The depth of Rodríguez's attachment is further emphasized when he states that even if he had two blue unicorns, he would still yearn for the one that's missing. This line underscores the uniqueness of the attachment and the irreplaceability of that specific connection. It is a universal emotion—reminiscent of pining for a lost love or a vanished era of one's life—that resonates with the audience.
Towards the end of the song, there is a subtle shift from the initial shock and sadness to a more active, though still forlorn, quest for resolution. Rodríguez sings about his willingness to pay any price for information leading to the unicorn's return, conveying a sense of desperation and a relentless desire to reclaim what was lost. The song concludes without resolution, leaving the listeners to sit with the enduring ache of yearning and the open-ended nature of the quest.
"Pastando lo dejé y desapareció"
The phrase alludes to the unicorn grazing—a peaceful, everyday image—and then disappearing, which brings an atmosphere of mystique and abrupt change.
"Las flores que dejó no me han querido hablar"
The flowers, silent witnesses to the unicorn's disappearance, are perhaps a metaphor for memories that cannot provide solace or answers, underscoring the artist's solitude in his quest.
"Cien mil o un millón yo pagaré"
Rodríguez uses hyperbole to express that he would pay any price to recover his lost unicorn, emphasizing the depth of the emotional and sentimental value attached to it.
"Con su cuerno de añil pescaba una canción"
Here, Rodríguez fuses the unicorn's imagery with the creative process, suggesting that inspiration (the song) is 'caught' by the unique magic (the horn) of the unicorn.