Mensajes de Amor de Curso Legal
Joan Manuel Serrat
The Price of Love: A Tale of Devotion and Distance
Joan Manuel Serrat's song "Mensajes de Amor de Curso Legal" delves into the complexities of love and the materialistic barriers that can arise within it. The lyrics tell the story of a man deeply in love, willing to give everything for the woman he adores. However, his beloved is not interested in his life or his love; she only desires money. This creates a poignant contrast between genuine affection and the cold, transactional nature of their relationship.
The protagonist's devotion is evident as he works tirelessly from dawn to dusk, earning money to send to her. Each bill he earns is kissed with love, symbolizing his heartfelt emotions. Yet, the irony is that the more money he sends, the further she distances herself from him. This highlights the futility of his efforts and the unbridgeable gap between them, driven by her materialistic desires.
Serrat uses the metaphor of money as "mensajes de amor de curso legal" (legal tender love messages) to underscore the absurdity and tragedy of the situation. The protagonist even contemplates disguising himself as money to be with her, a desperate and surreal idea that emphasizes his deep yearning and the lengths he is willing to go to bridge the emotional chasm. The song ultimately reflects on the corrupting influence of money on love and the painful realization that true affection cannot be bought or replaced by material wealth.