By Mike Sain't Louis ·
El abecedario de mi exnovio: giving the harm a name
An alphabet is for learning to name things. That's why it seems to me such an apt title for a song about abuse: when you've lived through a relationship like that, one of the hardest parts is finding words for what happened to you.
«El abecedario de mi exnovio» (My Ex-Boyfriend's ABC) comes from that need to put a name to the harm. It isn't meant as revenge on anyone or to point a finger. The intention is different: for whoever listens to recognise what is so often lived in silence, for it to come to light and for people to be able to talk about it without shame. Someone who gets out of a relationship like that is often left without words, and this song tries to give a few back.
The title has a very me touch of irony. An ex-boyfriend with his own alphabet, as if the lies, the jealousy or the manipulation could be sorted from A to Z. That almost schoolroom tone contrasts with the harshness of the subject, and I think that tension helps you listen without looking away.
The cover follows the same line. A blonde woman, in a white fifties dress and red lipstick, flees down an avenue dragging broken chains. Behind her, cars with sirens flashing and officers running after her. It's a movie image, exaggerated on purpose, but what it says is very real: someone who has already broken the chains and has no intention of going back.
It's dedicated to all the people who still can't speak and to those who are still here to tell it. Also to those who stand alongside: friends, family, neighbours who listen, believe what they're told and don't look the other way.
If you recognise yourself in this story, in Spain 016 answers 24 hours a day and the call doesn't show up on the phone bill.