Gitana

Willie Colón's song 'Gitana' is a poignant expression of unrequited love and the complex emotions that come with it. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and desire for a woman who is likened to a gypsy ('gitana'), symbolizing her free spirit and the singer's inability to possess her. The repeated references to her hair and face ('tu pelo, tu cara') emphasize the physical attraction and the intimate details that the singer cherishes.

The song's narrative is one of love that is deeply felt but not reciprocated. The singer acknowledges that the woman has never been his, yet he cannot help but feel a burning passion for her. This is further complicated by feelings of jealousy towards everything that gets to be close to her, from the wind to the comb that touches her hair. The intensity of these emotions is expressed through the refrain about the heart burning with jealousy ('los celos').

The poetic nature of the lyrics is evident in lines such as 'Las palabras son de aire, y van al aire / Mis lágrimas son agua, y van al mar,' which translate to 'Words are of air, and go to the air / My tears are water, and go to the sea.' This illustrates the ephemeral nature of words and tears, contrasting with the enduring pain of a love that cannot be fulfilled. The song ends with a sense of resignation, as the singer continues to love from a distance, without hope of reciprocation, yet unable to let go of the feelings that torment him.