Cruz De Palo

Antonio Aguilar's "Cruz De Palo" is a poignant song that delves into the depths of heartache and unrequited love. The lyrics tell the story of a man who, despite experiencing many pleasures in life, cannot find solace from the pain inflicted by a woman who has denied him her love. The repetition of his suffering and the woman's blame for his misfortune are central themes, painting a picture of a love that has turned into a curse.

The song's narrator speaks of an unending remembrance of the woman he loves, even though it brings him pain. He believes that she too will face a 'black punishment' for her actions. The imagery of a wooden cross in a cemetery with his name on it symbolizes the death of his happiness and possibly foreshadows his own demise due to this emotional torment. The wooden cross, a simple and unadorned grave marker, suggests a life of sorrow and a love that will never be celebrated or remembered by anyone but him.

The despair is so profound that not even drunkenness can provide him with comfort. The man accuses the woman of being responsible for his 'cruel torment' and feels that her betrayal and cruelty are what will ultimately lead to his end. Aguilar's performance of the song, with its traditional Mexican ranchera style, adds to the emotional weight of the lyrics, conveying the pain and resignation of a man lost in the shadow of a love that was never his.