Valentina

Andrés Calamaro's song "Valentina" is a poetic ode to a captivating woman who embodies the spirit and allure of Argentina. The lyrics paint Valentina as an almost mythical figure, someone who can make the entire nation stand in admiration. The night never ends with Valentina, suggesting that her presence is both enchanting and timeless. She is described as the woman anyone would dream of, elevating her to an idealized status that transcends ordinary human experience.

The song delves into the complexities of beginnings and endings, hinting at the challenges of relationships and life's transitions. With Valentina, these challenges seem to dissolve, as the narrator and his companions embark on a nocturnal adventure that stretches into the morning hours. The reference to the "dictatorship of beauty" underscores the overwhelming power of Valentina's allure, which commands attention and admiration, yet also imposes a kind of tyranny over those who fall under her spell.

Calamaro's lyrics also touch on the theme of shared experience and validation. The narrator feels compelled to bring a friend along to witness Valentina's beauty, as if her existence is so extraordinary that it requires corroboration. This communal aspect of admiration highlights the cultural significance of Valentina, who is not just a personal muse but a symbol of national pride. The repeated refrain, "Argentina entera se pone de pie," reinforces this idea, making Valentina a personification of the country's spirit and beauty. The song concludes with a poignant line, "Valentina te llevo clavada como una espina," suggesting that while Valentina's beauty is mesmerizing, it also leaves a lasting, bittersweet impact on those who encounter her.