La Valentina

Inti-Illimani's song 'La Valentina' is a heartfelt and passionate plea from a lover to his beloved, Valentina. The lyrics are steeped in traditional Latin American romanticism, where the speaker expresses an overwhelming passion that drives him to Valentina's feet. The song opens with the speaker confessing that a powerful passion has brought him to her, setting the tone for a narrative of intense emotion and devotion.

The lyrics also touch on themes of sacrifice and the willingness to face any consequence for love. The speaker acknowledges that people say he will face misfortune because of his love for Valentina, but he is undeterred, even if it means facing the devil or death. This hyperbolic expression underscores the depth of his feelings and his readiness to endure any hardship for the sake of his beloved. The mention of tequila and jerez (sherry) adds a cultural layer, reflecting the traditional Mexican association of love and heartbreak with drinking.

In the final verses, the speaker's surrender to Valentina is complete. He is at her feet, resigned to whatever fate may come, even if it means death. This ultimate act of devotion is a powerful statement of love's consuming nature. The repetition of Valentina's name throughout the song emphasizes her importance and the central role she plays in the speaker's life. Inti-Illimani, known for their folk and protest music, infuses this song with a deep emotional resonance, capturing the timeless and universal theme of love's power and the lengths one will go to for it.