Besando La Cruz

Chavela Vargas, a legendary figure in Mexican music, is known for her deeply emotional and soul-stirring performances. In 'Besando La Cruz,' she delves into the profound pain of betrayal and the subsequent loss of love. The song's title, which translates to 'Kissing the Cross,' is a powerful metaphor for swearing an oath or making a solemn promise, often associated with deep sincerity and truth. This imagery sets the tone for the song, as Vargas sings about the futility of loving someone with all your heart when that love is not reciprocated or respected.

The lyrics express a poignant narrative of devotion and heartbreak. Vargas questions the value of loving someone wholeheartedly ('De que sirve, querer / Con todo el corazon') and maintaining respect in a relationship ('De que sirve tener el dever / Respetando un amor') when that love is betrayed. She emphasizes her commitment and the exclusivity of her love ('Pa mi todo eras tu / No hubo nadie jamas'), only to be met with darkness and betrayal ('Oscuridad hoy eres tu / Por tu traicion'). This shift from light to darkness symbolizes the emotional turmoil and the loss of peace that follows such a betrayal.

In the chorus, Vargas laments the transformation of her beloved from a source of light and warmth ('Tu eras el sol / Eras la luz') to a symbol of darkness and pain. The repetition of these lines underscores the depth of her sorrow and the stark contrast between the past and present. The song also touches on the theme of seeking solace and escape ('Me voy lejos de a qui / Donde pueda olvidar'), highlighting the universal desire to find peace after a traumatic experience. The dedication to her siblings and the memory of their childhood adds a layer of nostalgia and longing for simpler, happier times, further enriching the emotional landscape of the song.

'Besando La Cruz' is a testament to Chavela Vargas's ability to convey complex emotions through her music. It captures the essence of heartbreak, betrayal, and the search for peace, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love.