Rafael Rodríguez
on translating Silvio Rodríguez
Perhaps useful as a backdrop for interpreting it, "Oh, melancolia" is inspired by Beethoven's Sonata Pathetique, and introduction of the song makes use of the sonata's second movement.
about the author
In a career spanning five decad es, Silvio Rodriguez has written over 500 songs, and is internationally regarded as one of the most prolific Hispanic poets of the twentieth century. His literary value was described by Mario Benedetti, another pioneer of twentieth century Latin American poetry, as follows: "Silvio's lyrics exalt their poetic authenticity well beyond the music that accompanies them... He is best described as a poet who sings, and furthermore, he is one of the most talented poets of our generation."
about the translator
Rafael Rodriguez sees Silvio Rodriguez as a both daily inspiration and as a teacher, without whom he would not be as close to his Cuban roots or to his native language.
