Song Meaning

Alejandro Sanz's "Ellos son asi" is not just a song; it's a rugged, affectionate portrait of enduring friendship. It's a heartfelt ode to the unsung heroes of the everyday, the neighborhood characters whose lives, though perhaps unconventional, are rich with authenticity. Sanz paints a picture of camaraderie forged not in boardrooms or polished social circles, but on street corners and in the shared trenches of ordinary existence. The "heroes del barrio" aren't caped crusaders, but rather the flawed, genuine individuals who provide unwavering support and loyalty. Sanz recognizes the unspoken contract of true friendship: a bond stronger than any legal agreement, built on shared experiences and mutual respect. The lyrics suggest these friends are artisans of life, capable of building palaces even within the ruins of abandoned dreams. The line, 'No hay saludo mas verdadero/Que el de sus manos encalladas,' speaks volumes, suggesting calloused hands represent honest labor and lived experience. The song's chorus, "Ellos son así," serves as both a declaration and an explanation. It emphasizes the paradoxical nature of these friends—'trovadores y locos,' 'caballeros de los que quedan pocos'—who are both dreamers and realists, capable of both grand gestures and petty lies. The metaphor of 'románticos piratas/Intentando navegar en un mar de asfalto gris' is particularly striking, evoking a sense of romanticism clashing with the harsh realities of modern urban life. They are dreamers navigating a concrete world, clinging to ideals of loyalty and adventure. The line 'dispuestos a invitar a los sioux a cenar' speaks to their inclusive nature, willing to break down barriers and embrace the other. Ultimately, "Ellos son asi" is a celebration of the beauty found in imperfection and the strength derived from genuine human connection. Sanz doesn't idealize his friends; he acknowledges their flaws and contradictions. The song suggests that true friendship lies not in perfection, but in accepting and cherishing each other's authentic selves. The phrase 'la mitad de su cero' is a beautiful paradox, suggesting that even when his friends have nothing, they will still offer what they have, highlighting the boundless generosity that defines their character. In a world often obsessed with superficiality, Alejandro Sanz's "Ellos son asi" is a powerful reminder of the enduring value of real friendship.