Clavel Sevillano

Agustín Lara's song 'Clavel Sevillano' is a poetic and passionate tribute to a Sevillian woman, symbolized by a carnation flower. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman whose beauty and allure are so intense that they ignite a fervent desire. The 'clavel' or carnation, a flower often associated with love and passion, is used metaphorically to represent the woman's captivating presence. The imagery of the flower 'prendió en sus trenzas' (caught in her braids) suggests that her beauty is both natural and enchanting, awakening a deep longing in those who behold her.

The song continues to describe the woman's divine forehead and dark complexion, with her hair trembling like that of a Nazarene, a reference that could evoke religious or cultural connotations, adding a layer of reverence to her beauty. The mention of 'luceros' (stars) illuminating with the light taken from her eyes further emphasizes her mesmerizing and almost celestial allure. This celestial imagery elevates her beauty to an almost otherworldly status, making her the center of admiration and desire.

In the final stanza, the carnation is described as fresh and beautiful, with its blood staining the 'marro jodindo,' a phrase that could be interpreted as a reference to the Moorish influence in Andalusian culture. The carnation, knowing her desires for love, becomes an object of envy for all other flowers, symbolizing how her beauty and passion are unmatched. This song, rich in metaphor and cultural references, celebrates the intense and almost sacred allure of the Sevillian woman, making her a timeless muse in Lara's poetic world.