Venedor D'Amor

Joan Manuel Serrat's song "Venedor D'Amor" delves into the themes of love, possession, and desire through the metaphor of a love merchant. The lyrics describe a marketplace where one can choose and acquire the girl they desire, likening the process to purchasing fine jewelry. This metaphorical marketplace is illuminated by the clarity of the choices available, each song representing a life given in exchange for love. The protagonist reveals his choice: a slender, dark-haired girl, whom he wishes to possess exclusively.

The song's narrative explores the complexities of love and ownership. The protagonist's desire to keep the girl solely for himself, even to the extent of buying her as a slave, highlights the darker aspects of possessive love. The imagery of the girl losing her beauty if another man looks at her underscores the fragility and insecurity inherent in such possessive relationships. This portrayal raises questions about the nature of true love and whether it can coexist with the desire to control and own another person.

Culturally, Serrat's song can be seen as a critique of societal norms that commodify love and relationships. By presenting love as something that can be bought and sold, the song challenges listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of love and the value they place on human connections. Serrat, known for his poetic and often socially conscious lyrics, uses this song to provoke thought and encourage a deeper understanding of the emotional and ethical dimensions of love.