“Dos Oruguitas” by Sebastián Yatra
The simplest way of understanding “Dos Oruguitas” in a modern context is by presuming it is about two lovers who are growing apart. The title actually translates to “two caterpillars”. And poetically speaking, said creatures are often used as symbols of transformations since caterpillars, which are rather unsightly, eventually go on to become beautiful butterflies.
In terms of the two loved ones at the center of this piece, it likewise appears to be time for them to separate into their own respective ‘cocoons’ in the name of realizing the fullness of their individual destinies, so to speak.
Of course being compelled to part ways with someone you love is an emotional event. So there is a permeating sense of sadness throughout the lyrics.
There is also a feeling of anxiety, considering that we human beings are often “afraid of change”. But it is clear that the vocalist has come to the conclusion that now is the time for the subjects at hand to make their own powermoves, even if doing so tears them apart. But from an emotional standing, he isn’t completely pessimistic. Furthermore, Sebastian also foresees a day when their paths will cross once again.
In Conclusion
To note, the vocalist actually relays these sentiments from the third person. And in doing so, this piece actually takes on an advisory tone. So it’s as if what Yatra is ultimately putting forth is that when we are likewise faced with such situations, we should not “hold on too tight” to a relationship that has run its course.
That said, even though, once again, all of this reads romantic, there is not anything overtly pointing to such in the lyrics.
“Ay, oruguitas, no se aguanten más
Hay que crecer aparte y volver, hacia adelante seguirás
Vienen milagros, vienen crisálidas
Hay que partir y construir su propio futuro“
Facts about “Dos Oruguitas”
This is a song that Walt Disney made public on 19 November 2021. It is part of the soundtrack to Disney’s hit animated full-length Encanto. Other notable songs from the aforementioned project include:
To note, Sebastián Yatra does not voice any of the characters in that film.
Yatra is a popular and accomplished singer from Colombia. And with Encanto itself being set in said country, a number of Latin American artists are used on the soundtrack.
Yatra is on record as stating that “it’s always been a dream of (his) to be part of a Disney movie”.
As of the first week of January 2022, “Dos Oruguitas” is the only song within the top 50 of the US Spotify chart that is rendered in Spanish.
There is an English version of this song, which Yatra also sings.
Who wrote “Dos Oruguitas”?
This piece was authored by Lin-Manuel Miranda. FYI, concurrently Miranda can be considered the top theatrical-musical composer in America. Miranda is of Latin American, primarily Puerto Rican, descent. However, he has noted that “Dos Oruguitas” is the first song he’s ever written completely in Spanish.
Miranda also produced this track, though in that regard in conjunction with Mike Elizondo.
