Condena
Enrique Santos Discépolo
The Torment of Unrequited Love in 'Condena'
Enrique Santos Discépolo's song 'Condena' delves deep into the anguish and torment of unrequited love. The protagonist is trapped in a brutal fate, condemned to a personal hell where his love remains unfulfilled. The lyrics express a profound sense of suffering and despair, as the protagonist grapples with the reality that the object of his affection will never be his. This unreciprocated love is described as a 'brutal destiny' that condemns him to horror and pain, highlighting the intensity of his emotional turmoil.
The song further explores the protagonist's futile attempts to forget his beloved by engaging in numerous loveless relationships. Despite these efforts, he remains ensnared in his longing, unable to escape the grip of his passion. The lyrics poignantly capture the hopelessness of his situation, as he realizes that his dreams of love are unattainable. The repeated failures to move on only deepen his despair, illustrating the inescapable nature of his emotional suffering.
Adding to the tragedy is the fact that the beloved is completely unaware of the protagonist's feelings. She offers him friendship, and another person provides faith, but neither suspects the depth of his torment. This unawareness exacerbates his pain, as he is left to suffer in silence. The song questions what it is about the beloved that has ensnared him so completely—her eyes, her voice, or her presence. This introspection underscores the irrational and uncontrollable nature of love, which can bind a person to another without any hope of reciprocation or release.