Envidia

Antonio Machín's song 'Envidia' is a poignant exploration of the complex emotions that love can evoke. The title 'Envidia,' which translates to 'Envy' in English, sets the stage for a confession of the deep yearning and desire that the narrator feels for their beloved. The lyrics express a form of envy that is not malicious or bitter, but rather a testament to the intensity of the narrator's love. The envy is directed towards inanimate objects and abstract concepts that have the privilege of being close to the loved one, highlighting the narrator's sense of longing and exclusion.

The song's verses detail the narrator's envy of the valleys, mountains, rivers, towns, and streets that the beloved has traversed without them. This envy extends to the beloved's shadow, house, and roses, emphasizing the desire to be an integral part of the beloved's life. The repetition of these sentiments throughout the song underscores the persistent and all-consuming nature of this emotion. However, the envy described is not destructive; it is a reflection of profound affection, as the narrator admits that their envy is simply a manifestation of love.

The metaphorical use of envy in the song serves to illustrate the depth of the narrator's feelings. When the narrator confesses to envying their own voice for being able to say the beloved's name, it reveals a level of devotion that transcends mere physical presence. The song's emotional weight is carried by Machín's delivery, which is often filled with a sense of melancholy and longing, characteristic of his style. 'Envidia' is not just a song about love; it's a ballad that captures the essence of romantic obsession and the pain of unfulfilled desire.