Asignatura Pendiente

Ricardo Arjona's "Asignatura Pendiente" is a poignant reflection on the dichotomy between material success and personal fulfillment. The song's title, which translates to "Pending Subject" or "Unfinished Business," sets the stage for a narrative of introspection and longing. Arjona, a Guatemalan singer-songwriter known for his lyrical storytelling, uses the song to convey a sense of regret over a lost love, juxtaposed with his achievements and possessions.

The lyrics describe a life filled with accomplishments and luxuries, such as a fan club on the moon, a giant house, and a suite at the Waldorf, yet there's an overwhelming sense of emptiness. The artist expresses a desire to not have desires, highlighting the irony of having everything but feeling nothing. This emptiness is attributed to the absence of a significant other, referred to as 'mi boricua, mi india, mi amor,' indicating a deep connection to someone from Puerto Rico. The repeated phrase 'mi asignatura pendiente' underscores the idea that, despite all his success, the artist has failed to address the most important aspect of his life: his relationship with this person.

The song's emotional core is the memory of a farewell in the rain in San Juan, a moment that symbolizes the unresolved feelings and missed opportunities. Arjona's lyrics suggest that in the pursuit of his career and the distractions of fame ('ocupado en el cielo'), he neglected the more grounded and fulfilling aspects of life ('en el suelo se vive mejor'). The song serves as a reminder that personal connections and love are often the most significant parts of our lives, and without them, even the greatest achievements can feel hollow.