Oro Santo

Buika's song 'Oro Santo' is a poignant exploration of longing, memory, and reverence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with both divine and dark elements, reflecting the complex emotions of the narrator. The 'penumbra' or twilight of the night symbolizes a state of in-betweenness, where the soul is always awake and alert. This setting serves as a backdrop for the narrator's lament, a prelude to 'dead hours' that pass with the agony of a slow death. The imagery of silence dressing the narrator in 'gold' and the return of ancestral memories adds a layer of sacredness and nostalgia to the song. The mention of the narrator's father returning after 20 years underscores the theme of longing and the passage of time.

The chorus, 'Si tú volvieras, te vestiría de oro mi santo,' translates to 'If you returned, I would dress you in gold, my saint.' This line is repeated with a sense of desperation, emphasizing the narrator's deep yearning for the return of a loved one. The act of dressing someone in gold is a metaphor for reverence and adoration, elevating the loved one to a saint-like status. The narrator wishes for silence so that their desperate song can be heard, highlighting the intensity of their emotions.

The song also delves into the narrator's internal struggle with their feelings. They express a desire to love less intensely, to avoid the torment that comes with such deep affection. The lyrics 'Ay cómo quisiera quererte menos y más oscura quisiera quererte lento' reveal a wish to love more slowly and less painfully. The narrator dreams of a reality where their wild dreams come true, allowing them to stop dreaming and adore more slowly. This internal conflict adds depth to the song, making it a rich tapestry of emotions and desires.