Rusa, Rumana

Enrique Bunbury's song 'Rusa, Rumana' delves into the theme of an intense, almost obsessive infatuation with a mysterious woman. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who spends his days and nights consumed by thoughts of a woman he barely knows. This woman, who might be Russian or Romanian, represents an exotic and unattainable ideal, further emphasized by the language barrier and her aloof demeanor.

The song's narrative unfolds during a summer encounter, where the protagonist is captivated by the woman's beauty as she sunbathes. Despite his strong attraction, he hesitates to approach her directly, adding to the allure of the 'sexy mystery' surrounding her. The presence of her husband, who smiles at the protagonist's advances, adds a layer of complexity and unattainability to the situation. This dynamic creates a sense of longing and unfulfilled desire, as the protagonist is left to wonder about her origins and who she will ultimately choose.

Bunbury's lyrics also touch on the theme of memory and nostalgia. The protagonist keeps the memory of this woman 'guarded in [his] shoebox,' symbolizing how significant and cherished this fleeting encounter is to him. Each summer, he finds himself missing her, despite their limited interaction. This recurring longing highlights the power of brief, impactful moments and how they can linger in one's mind, shaping their thoughts and emotions long after the encounter has ended.

The song's repetitive chorus, 'Todo el día pensando en ti,' reinforces the obsessive nature of the protagonist's thoughts, emphasizing how this brief encounter has taken over his mind. The use of 'Sha la la la la' adds a whimsical, almost dreamlike quality to the song, contrasting with the underlying theme of unfulfilled desire and longing.