La Pretendida
Altemar Dutra
The Heartache of Unfulfilled Love in 'La Pretendida'
Altemar Dutra's song 'La Pretendida' delves into the emotional turmoil and heartache of a relationship that has lost its spark. The lyrics are a poignant reflection of a love that has faded, with the protagonist addressing the complaints and accusations of their partner. The song opens with the partner lamenting the lack of affection and the change in the protagonist's behavior, suggesting that the protagonist's kisses no longer ignite the same passion and even accusing them of having another lover. This sets the stage for a narrative of misunderstanding and emotional distance.
The protagonist acknowledges the partner's grievances but denies any infidelity, pointing out that it was the partner who gradually abandoned their shared life. This shift in blame highlights the complexity of relationships, where both parties may feel wronged and misunderstood. The protagonist's acceptance of the partner's desire to leave, offering them freedom without resentment, underscores a deep, albeit painful, love. The line 'Por el camino te dirán la pretendida' suggests that the partner will be seen as someone who sought affection elsewhere, and their pride will eventually suffer as a result.
Despite the pain of separation, the protagonist expresses a selfless wish for the partner's happiness and leaves the door open for reconciliation. The final lines, 'E si algún día vienes a golpear mi puerta / Puedes entrar aquí te espera mi perdón,' convey a sense of enduring love and forgiveness, offering a glimmer of hope that the partner might return. This song is a touching exploration of love, loss, and the possibility of redemption, wrapped in the melancholic beauty of Altemar Dutra's emotive delivery.