Negra Consentida

Gigliola Cinquetti's song 'Negra Consentida' is a heartfelt serenade that captures the essence of a deep and passionate love. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of longing and devotion, as the singer addresses her beloved, referred to as 'negra consentida,' which translates to 'spoiled black girl' or 'cherished black girl.' This term of endearment highlights the special place the beloved holds in the singer's heart, emphasizing a relationship filled with affection and tenderness.

The song opens with a poetic invocation of the night, a common motif in romantic literature and music. The night is personified as a flower and a lover, setting a dreamy and intimate atmosphere. The singer, likened to a troubadour, serenades her beloved under the cover of night, a time traditionally associated with romance and secrecy. This imagery creates a vivid picture of a serenade, where the singer pours out her emotions in the quiet, intimate hours of the night.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of pain and joy intertwined. The singer's soul is described as 'adolorida' (aching) yet filled with happiness at the thought of her beloved. This duality reflects the complexities of love, where joy and sorrow often coexist. The plea for the beloved to stop crying and recognize the overflowing love in the singer's heart adds a layer of urgency and earnestness to the song. It is a beautiful expression of the highs and lows of love, capturing the intensity of emotions that come with deep affection and longing.