Incompatibilidad de Caracteres

Joaquín Sabina's song "Incompatibilidad de Caracteres" delves into the complexities and frustrations of a relationship marked by constant disagreements and mismatched desires. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple whose differences are so pronounced that they seem to be living in entirely different worlds. Sabina's storytelling is rich with irony and humor, capturing the essence of a love that is both passionate and exasperating.

The song opens with the narrator expressing his exhaustion from trying to make the relationship work, only to be met with persistent incompatibility. The phrase "Setenta veces siete lo intenté" ("Seventy times seven I tried") underscores the repeated efforts and the biblical reference to forgiveness, highlighting the depth of his attempts to reconcile their differences. Despite these efforts, the narrator concludes that their relationship is doomed due to their irreconcilable differences.

Throughout the song, Sabina uses a series of contrasting scenarios to illustrate the couple's incompatibility. Whether it's their differing opinions on music, sexual preferences, or even sports teams, each verse adds another layer to the narrative of discord. The humor in lines like "Si la engaño con una rócker, ella me la da con un mod" ("If I cheat on her with a rocker, she gets back at me with a mod") adds a playful yet poignant touch to the song, emphasizing the absurdity of their situation.

Ultimately, "Incompatibilidad de Caracteres" is a reflection on the challenges of love and the inevitability of parting ways when two people are fundamentally mismatched. Sabina's clever wordplay and vivid imagery make the song a relatable and entertaining exploration of the trials and tribulations of romantic relationships.