Asignatura Pendiente
Alfredo Olivas
The Unfinished Lesson of Love: Dissecting 'Asignatura Pendiente'
The song 'Asignatura Pendiente' by Alfredo Olivas is a poignant narrative of an incomplete romantic encounter that lingers in the mind of the narrator as an unresolved issue. The title itself, which translates to 'Pending Subject' or 'Unfinished Business,' sets the tone for a confession of missed opportunities and the desire to rectify past hesitations. The lyrics open with a metaphor of an unfinished crossword puzzle, suggesting that the relationship or encounter was complex and left incomplete, with the narrator questioning why they didn't fully engage when they were so close to doing so.
The narrator reflects on their own actions, or lack thereof, with a sense of regret and self-criticism. They wonder if their sensibility and naivety held them back from being more daring in the moment. This introspection reveals a struggle between the desire to be respectful and the natural impulses of attraction. The song's chorus expresses a strong determination to meet again and advance to a more intimate phase, with the narrator playfully warning that they won't ask for permission to explore their passion more deeply next time. The use of metaphors like 'volcanoes' and 'hills' symbolizes the intensity and excitement of the desired physical connection.
Alfredo Olivas, known for his work in the Regional Mexican genre, often incorporates storytelling into his music, and 'Asignatura Pendiente' is no exception. The song captures the universal theme of longing and the human tendency to replay and wish to change moments from our past. It's a candid exploration of the tension between restraint and desire, and the courage it takes to confront one's own inhibitions in the pursuit of love and connection.