La Oscura Flor
Alberto Danza
The Dark Flower of Passion: Analyzing 'La Oscura Flor' by Alberto Danza
Alberto Danza's 'La Oscura Flor' is a vivid and passionate exploration of love, desire, and the intoxicating effects of both. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a night filled with fervent emotions, where the protagonist is deeply consumed by his longing and the physical presence of his lover. The imagery of burning skin and the rhythm of the drum set the stage for a night of intense connection, where the protagonist's thirst for love is quenched by both wine and the touch of his lover.
The song delves into the physical and emotional intensity of the relationship. The protagonist describes the trembling of his lover's bare chest and the way his eyes, heavy with desire and alcohol, metaphorically tear through her clothing. This vivid imagery conveys a sense of raw, almost primal passion. The mention of the dawn's mist extinguishing the echoes of the 'infernal drum' suggests a night of wild, unrestrained love-making, culminating in a moment of exhaustion and closeness as the morning dew settles outside.
The recurring theme of the 'oscura flor' or 'dark flower' symbolizes the deep, perhaps forbidden, nature of their love. The protagonist reflects on how the path of love always finds him, and despite the intensity and possible consequences, he is drawn to it irresistibly. The dark flower of his zamba, a traditional Argentine dance, represents his lover's body and soul, which he cannot forget. The song concludes with a plea to drink deeply from his lover's 'coppery skin,' likening her body to a dark wine that he will savor in profound gulps, emphasizing the depth and intensity of his desire.