La Mensa

Astrid Hadad's song 'La Mensa' delves into the emotional turmoil and societal pressures faced by a woman in a tumultuous romantic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who feels drained and disillusioned by her lover's inconsistency and lack of commitment. The repeated phrase 'me siento lacia' (I feel wilted) metaphorically represents her emotional exhaustion and the toll the relationship has taken on her spirit. This sense of weariness is compounded by the societal judgment she faces, as indicated by the line 'Por ti me dicen que soy mensa' (Because of you, they say I'm foolish), highlighting the external pressures and expectations placed on her.

The song also touches on the cultural concept of 'quedarse para vestir santos,' a phrase used in Mexican culture to describe women who remain unmarried and are often seen as destined to a life of solitude. Hadad's protagonist is acutely aware of this stigma but refuses to accept it passively. She calls upon 'Divino San Torino' to liberate her from her suffering, symbolizing a plea for divine intervention and strength to overcome her predicament. This invocation adds a layer of spiritual struggle to her emotional and societal battles.

Despite her feelings of being 'lacia,' the protagonist asserts her determination not to conform to societal expectations. She declares that she will find love elsewhere if her current lover does not take her seriously, as seen in the lines 'pues con otro daré el changazo' (I will find another). This defiance underscores a broader theme of self-respect and empowerment, challenging the traditional roles and expectations imposed on women. Hadad's powerful delivery and the song's poignant lyrics make 'La Mensa' a compelling narrative of a woman's fight for dignity and genuine love in the face of societal and emotional adversity.