Piénsalo Bien
Agustín Lara
A Tormented Heart's Plea: The Depths of Love in 'Piénsalo Bien'
Agustín Lara's song 'Piénsalo Bien' is a heartfelt plea from a lover to his beloved, urging her to reconsider her feelings and return to him. The song opens with a direct appeal to the 'mulata,' a term that historically refers to a woman of mixed African and European descent, which adds a layer of cultural context to the narrative. The lover's soul is tormented without her love, and he implores her to see his suffering, emphasizing that only God knows the extent of his pain. This invocation of divine witness underscores the depth and sincerity of his emotions.
The lyrics continue with a poetic request for reassurance. The lover asks for a sign that her 'rosales' (rose bushes) have bloomed for him, symbolizing her affection and the hope that she still cares for him. He longs for her smile, which represents hope and the possibility of reconciliation. The imagery of blooming roses and a hopeful smile paints a vivid picture of the lover's desire for a renewed connection and the peace it would bring to his troubled soul.
In the final verses, the lover invites his beloved to join him in a romantic setting, where he will paint their cabin with the moonlight. This imagery evokes a sense of idyllic, serene love, contrasting with his current state of torment. He promises to wait for her through the night, counting the hours until she returns. The repeated plea for her to 'piénsalo bien' (think it over) highlights his desperation and genuine love, urging her to carefully consider the depth of his feelings and the sincerity of his intentions.