Palmeras
Agustín Lara
Tropical Romance in 'Palmeras' by Agustín Lara
The song 'Palmeras' by Agustín Lara is a poetic and romantic ode, rich with tropical imagery and deep emotion. Agustín Lara, a prolific Mexican composer and singer, was known for his ability to capture the essence of love and longing in his music, often using nature as a metaphor for the feelings he expressed. In 'Palmeras,' Lara paints a vivid picture of his beloved through comparisons with various elements of tropical scenery.
The lyrics begin by likening the color in the subject's eyes to the emerald green of the sea, suggesting a depth and beauty that is both natural and enchanting. The reference to the 'boquita,' or little mouth, with the 'sangre marchita,' or withered blood of coral, evokes the vibrant yet delicate nature of coral reefs, perhaps alluding to the precious and fragile nature of love. The cadence of the beloved's divine voice is compared to a 'rima de amor,' or love rhyme, emphasizing the musicality and harmony present in their speech, which resonates with the listener like a beautiful song.
The final lines of the song mention 'ojeras,' or dark circles under the eyes, where one can see 'palmeras borrachas de sol,' or palm trees drunk with sun. This imagery could symbolize the weariness or the emotional toll that love can take on a person, while also painting a picture of a tropical paradise, perhaps suggesting that even in fatigue or sadness, the presence of love can create a sense of warmth and beauty. Overall, 'Palmeras' is a lyrical journey through a landscape of love, where nature's elements are seamlessly intertwined with human emotion.