La Costumbre
Gonzalo Yañez
The Illusion of Love: Unraveling 'La Costumbre' by Gonzalo Yañez
Gonzalo Yañez's song 'La Costumbre' delves into the complexities of a relationship that has lost its spark, exploring the difference between genuine love and mere habit. The lyrics poignantly capture the disillusionment and emotional fatigue that come with staying in a relationship out of routine rather than true affection. Yañez's reflective tone and candid words reveal a deep understanding of the emotional toll that such a relationship can take on both partners.
The song opens with a stark observation: 'No hace falta que me digas que ya nada es como antes,' indicating that the change in their relationship is palpable and undeniable. The line 'la costumbre no es amor' serves as a recurring motif, emphasizing that staying together out of habit is not the same as being in love. This theme is further explored through the depiction of mundane activities, such as watching football to avoid arguments, highlighting the lengths to which people go to maintain a semblance of harmony.
Yañez also addresses the emotional strain and unmet expectations within the relationship. The lyrics 'Y si nunca estas contenta y siempre me pasas la cuenta / Por no ser el hombre con el que soñabas' reflect the disappointment and resentment that can build up over time. The plea to 'cortemos de la forma mas sensata' suggests a desire for a respectful and amicable separation, acknowledging that sometimes parting ways is the most loving thing to do. The song concludes with a bittersweet reflection on past hopes and the realization that the 'perfect' partner was an illusion.
'La Costumbre' is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional complexities of relationships, urging listeners to distinguish between love and habit and to seek genuine connection and fulfillment in their lives.