Mi quebranto
Andrés Calamaro
The Duality of Love and Sorrow in 'Mi quebranto'
In 'Mi quebranto,' Andrés Calamaro delves into the complexities of love and the emotional turmoil it can bring. The song opens with the imagery of a river and people in 'corrientes,' a term that can refer to both currents and the city of Corrientes in Argentina. This duality sets the stage for the song's exploration of living two lives and the pain that comes with it. Calamaro sings about waiting to eat and move on, suggesting a sense of survival and endurance, as he tries to numb the pain of his 'quebranto,' or heartbreak.
The chorus reveals a deeper layer of his suffering, as he describes himself as 'condenado doblemente enamorado,' or doubly condemned by love. This phrase captures the essence of his torment, being in love with two people simultaneously. The metaphor of 'dos estrellas que seguir,' or two stars to follow, illustrates his divided heart and the impossibility of fully committing to either. The nights blend into days, emphasizing the monotony and confusion of his emotional state. He hints at the need for sharing and compromise, but the reality of his situation leaves him in a state of perpetual longing and despair.
As the song progresses, Calamaro's anguish becomes more palpable. He describes himself as 'hecho pelota,' a colloquial expression meaning utterly destroyed, and admits that his head has been 'rota,' or broken, since encountering a woman who changed his life. This woman, unforgettable and transformative, embodies both pain and pleasure, encapsulating the dual nature of his 'quebranto.' The song poignantly captures the bittersweet essence of love, where joy and sorrow are inextricably linked, leaving the listener with a profound sense of empathy for Calamaro's plight.