Como Lo Tienes Tú
Enrique Bunbury
The Inner Turmoil of Uncertainty in Love
Enrique Bunbury's song "Como Lo Tienes Tú" delves into the complexities of self-identity and the tumultuous nature of romantic relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their multifaceted personality, oscillating between extremes such as being 'Satan' and 'Cinderella,' a 'tyrant' and 'a true guy.' This duality reflects the internal conflict and the struggle to reconcile different aspects of oneself. The repeated phrase 'Soy igual desde el principio y hasta el final' (I am the same from the beginning to the end) suggests a sense of consistency amidst the chaos, yet it is clear that this consistency is fraught with contradictions.
The chorus highlights the protagonist's indecisiveness in love. One moment, they are ready to abandon the world for their partner, and the next, they are bored and feel that the partner is not right for them. This vacillation is encapsulated in the line 'Cómo quisiera tenerlo tan claro cómo lo tienes tú' (How I wish I had it as clear as you do). The protagonist envies their partner's apparent clarity and certainty, which starkly contrasts with their own mental confusion and emotional instability. This longing for clarity underscores the theme of uncertainty and the desire for a more straightforward emotional experience.
Bunbury's lyrical style is rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, which adds depth to the exploration of these themes. The use of phrases like 'tengo una paja mental' (I have a mental mess) and 'soy un torbellino' (I am a whirlwind) conveys the chaotic state of the protagonist's mind. The song's structure, with its repetitive chorus, mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist's thoughts and feelings, emphasizing the ongoing struggle with self-identity and romantic indecision. Through this song, Bunbury captures the essence of human complexity and the often contradictory nature of our emotions and desires.