Viaje
Ricardo Arjona
Exploring Love and Desire in Ricardo Arjona's 'Viaje'
Ricardo Arjona's song 'Viaje' is a poetic exploration of love and desire, using vivid geographical metaphors to describe the allure and beauty of a beloved. The lyrics intricately compare various parts of a woman's body to famous landmarks around the world, suggesting not only the physical attraction but also a deep admiration and wonder. For instance, the comparison of her curves to the Himalayas or her eyes to Cancún adds a layer of exoticism and grandeur, elevating her beauty to that of awe-inspiring landscapes.
The song's chorus, where Arjona claims he was born to be a foreigner in the land of her skin, highlights a theme of belonging and exploration. This metaphor extends to viewing the relationship as a journey or an adventure, where love is not just about being together but also about discovering each other continuously. The repeated lines about being a foreigner without a visa or paper underscore a sense of eternal wanderlust within the confines of their relationship, suggesting that his connection to her transcends traditional boundaries and is a country of its own where he finds his true identity.
Arjona's use of global landmarks not only as metaphors but also as emotional touchpoints in the song suggests a universal appeal to the emotions he describes. The song weaves a narrative of exploration, both geographical and emotional, where each discovery brings him closer to understanding his own feelings as much as it does to appreciating the person he loves. This blending of the physical journey with the emotional journey through the language of world travel makes 'Viaje' a rich tapestry of love, desire, and personal discovery.