Amapola
Alfonso Ortiz Tirado
The Yearning Heart of 'Amapola'
Alfonso Ortiz Tirado's song 'Amapola' is a heartfelt serenade that captures the essence of unrequited love and longing. The title 'Amapola,' which translates to 'Poppy' in English, serves as a metaphor for the beloved, who is as beautiful and delicate as the flower. The repeated use of 'lindísima Amapola' emphasizes the admiration and adoration the singer feels for this person, elevating them to an almost ethereal status.
The lyrics express a deep yearning and a plea for reciprocation. The singer compares his love to the way the day loves the flower, suggesting a natural, almost inevitable connection. However, this love is not returned, as indicated by the plea 'No seas tan ingrata, amamé,' which translates to 'Don't be so ungrateful, love me.' This line reveals the pain and frustration of loving someone who does not feel the same way.
The repetition of the question 'Cómo puedes tu vivir tan sola' ('How can you live so alone') adds another layer to the song. It suggests that the beloved, despite their beauty and allure, is isolated and perhaps unaware of the love that surrounds them. This creates a poignant contrast between the singer's intense emotions and the beloved's apparent indifference. The song, with its simple yet powerful lyrics, captures the universal experience of longing and the hope that love will eventually be returned.