Despierto
Alejandro Santamaria
Dreaming Awake: The Yearning in 'Despierto' by Alejandro Santamaria
Alejandro Santamaria's song 'Despierto' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the longing for a deeper connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is infatuated with someone they can only admire from afar. The protagonist is caught in a state of 'dreaming awake,' constantly thinking about the object of their affection, especially during the quiet, introspective hours of the night. This state of yearning is exacerbated by the fact that, despite their intense feelings, they and the person they desire 'are nothing,' indicating a lack of a formal relationship or mutual acknowledgment of their feelings.
The song's chorus emphasizes the protagonist's frustration and confusion. They are left wondering why, despite their strong emotions and the time that has passed, they have not yet formed a meaningful connection with the person they admire. The repeated line 'No somos nada' (We are nothing) underscores the painful reality that their feelings are not reciprocated or recognized, leaving them in a limbo of unfulfilled desire.
Santamaria's lyrics also explore the transformative power of love. The protagonist admits that they once had a 'heart of ice,' but the person they are infatuated with has changed them, lifting them from the 'earth to the sky.' This metaphor highlights the profound impact that love, even unrequited, can have on an individual's emotional state. The song captures the essence of longing, hope, and the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled love, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced similar emotions.