El Arcoíris (Sinfónico, 40 Años)

Iván Villazón's song 'El Arcoíris (Sinfónico, 40 Años)' is a rich tapestry of symbolism and emotion, weaving together themes of love, sacrifice, and natural beauty. The song opens with a request to paint a swallow, a bird often associated with freedom and hope. However, Villazón adds a poignant twist by insisting that the swallow must have a thorn in its beak and pain in its eyes. This imagery evokes the story of Christ's crucifixion, where swallows are said to have tried to alleviate His suffering by removing the thorns from His crown. This metaphor sets the stage for a deeper exploration of love and sacrifice.

The song then transitions to the imagery of rainbows, which are said to be born in the Nevada mountains near Valledupar and disappear into the savannah. The rainbow, a symbol of beauty and fleeting moments, is likened to the swallows that emerge after a storm only to vanish again. This cyclical pattern of appearance and disappearance mirrors the transient nature of life and love. Villazón's use of natural elements like rainbows and swallows serves to elevate the emotional stakes, making the listener ponder the ephemeral yet impactful moments in their own lives.

Central to the song is the figure of Dina Luz, who is described as both a swallow and a rainbow. This duality underscores her importance to the narrator, who sees her as a source of both comfort and beauty. The mention of Jaime Molina, a renowned painter, adds another layer of depth. Molina's act of painting a beautiful rainbow with a cross in the background from heaven signifies a divine blessing and eternal love. The song concludes with the narrator expressing his deep affection for Dina Luz, calling her his 'consentida,' or cherished one. This term of endearment encapsulates the song's essence: a heartfelt tribute to a loved one who embodies both the pain and beauty of life.