Retrato de María

Antonio Prieto's song 'Retrato de María' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the haunting presence of memories. The song begins with a recitation that sets a melancholic tone, as the narrator reflects on the end of a day and the absence of María, his great love. The photograph of María becomes a central symbol in the song, representing both the permanence of her memory and the silence that now surrounds her. The narrator's plea for the photograph to speak underscores his desperation and longing for a connection that has been severed.

As the song transitions into its sung portion, the narrator recounts moments from their past, blending humor and sorrow. He recalls a day when he expelled María from their home, laughing at the memory but revealing a deeper pain. The laughter is a mask for his suffering, a way to cope with the void left by María's absence. The mention of their child and the canary adds layers to the narrative, illustrating the chaos and change that have ensued since María's departure. The child's mischief and the canary's death symbolize the disruption of their once-stable life.

The song's climax reveals the narrator's true agony. Despite his attempts to move on and find love with other 'Marías,' he is consumed by grief and regret. His laughter turns into a cry of despair, as he admits that his joy is a facade. The photograph of María becomes a tormenting presence, a reminder of what he has lost. The final lines, where he begs for forgiveness and acknowledges her beauty, encapsulate his enduring love and the pain of living without her. 'Retrato de María' is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of love and the struggle to reconcile with loss.