The song "El Teu Àngel De La Guarda" by Joan Manuel Serrat tells the story of three different figures: the old lighthouse keeper, the railroad gatekeeper, and the night watchman. Each character symbolizes a guardian angel, watching over and protecting someone in their life. The first verse describes the old lighthouse keeper, who uses his lantern to sweep the black sea and light up the moonless nights. He warns ships about the danger of hidden sharp rocks lurking in the foam. The protagonist then compares themselves to this lighthouse keeper, having their own metaphorical lighthouse to guide and protect their loved one from the treacherous sea. In the second verse, the song talks about the railroad gatekeeper who eagerly waits for the fast-passing train, raising dust and brandishing his lamp. He appreciates the whistle of a friend who flees without looking back. The protagonist compares themselves to this gatekeeper, ensuring that nothing impedes their loved one's path and that they reach their destination smoothly. The third verse portrays the night watchman, loaded with a bunch of keys, guarding the silence and peace of the sleeping neighborhood. He responds promptly to the call of a neighbor who claps his hands, opening the gate. The protagonist assures that they are always there, at any time and place, ready to provide companionship whenever called upon. Throughout the song, Serrat emphasizes the importance of these guardian figures in protecting and guiding those they care for. The chorus urges not to let the sea cause any harm to the lighthouse keeper, the path to hinder the gatekeeper, or the night to trouble the watchman and their charge. Overall, "El Teu Àngel De La Guarda" is a beautiful tribute to the roles that these guardian figures play in watching over and protecting the ones they care about.
