Me Gustas Cuando Callas

Alejandro Sanz's 'Me Gustas Cuando Callas' is a poetic and introspective song that delves into the complex emotions of love and longing. The lyrics, originally a poem by Pablo Neruda, are rich with metaphors and imagery that convey a deep sense of admiration and melancholy. The song's title, which translates to 'I Like You When You Are Silent,' sets the tone for a narrative that explores the beauty found in moments of silence and distance within a relationship.

The song opens with the lines 'Me gustas cuando callas porque estas como ausente,' which means 'I like you when you are silent because you seem absent.' This suggests a paradoxical appreciation for the beloved's silence, as it creates a sense of mystery and longing. The imagery of eyes that 'se te hubieran volado' (seem to have flown away) and a kiss that 'te cerrara la boca' (closes your mouth) further emphasizes the ethereal and almost otherworldly connection between the lovers. The silence is not just an absence of words but a profound presence that speaks volumes.

As the song progresses, Sanz describes the beloved as a 'mariposa de sueño' (dream butterfly) and compares her to his soul and the word 'melancolia' (melancholy). This metaphor highlights the delicate and fragile nature of their relationship, filled with dreams and a touch of sadness. The recurring theme of silence is portrayed as something beautiful and serene, akin to the night sky filled with stars. The beloved's silence is likened to a distant star, 'tan lejano y sencillo' (so distant and simple), suggesting that true connection can be found even in moments of quiet and separation.

In the final verses, the song takes a poignant turn as Sanz expresses relief that the beloved's silence is not due to death. The lines 'distante y dolorosa como si hubieras muerto' (distant and painful as if you had died) and 'una palabra entonces, una sonrisa bastan' (a word then, a smile is enough) reveal the depth of his emotional attachment. The song concludes with a sense of joy and gratitude that the beloved is still present, even if in silence, underscoring the profound impact of their connection.