Vals Ecologico

Hugo Varela's 'Vals Ecologico' is a poignant and metaphor-laden exploration of lost love and transformation. The song uses an array of botanical imagery to convey the emotional journey of the narrator, who reflects on a past relationship that has withered over time. Each flower and plant mentioned in the lyrics serves as a symbol for different aspects of the relationship, from the initial seduction to the eventual decay.

The song begins with the narrator recounting how various flowers, such as a clavel del aire (air carnation) and a gladiolo (gladiolus), symbolize the early stages of love and attraction. These flowers represent the beauty and allure that initially drew the couple together. However, as the song progresses, the imagery shifts to reflect the deterioration of the relationship. The mention of a limonero (lemon tree) perfuming the garden suggests a fleeting moment of sweetness that has since faded.

As the song continues, the narrator's tone becomes more melancholic. The reference to a caléndula (marigold) and margarita (daisy) evokes memories of happier times, while the mention of a dama de noche (night-blooming jasmine) and alegría del hogar (joy of the home) highlights the deep emotional connection that once existed. However, the imagery takes a darker turn with the introduction of a planta caduca (deciduous plant) and parásita y trepadora (parasitic and climbing plant), symbolizing the negative changes in the partner's character.

The final verses of the song reveal the full extent of the transformation. The once vibrant and nurturing relationship is now marked by a seco helecho (dry fern) and desteñidos geranios (faded geraniums), culminating in the ultimate loss of identity as the partner is no longer recognized as 'Margarita' but has become 'Malvón' (geranium). This shift in names signifies a complete change in the partner's essence, leaving the narrator to mourn the loss of the person they once loved.