La Bien Pagá

Joaquín Sabina's song 'La Bien Pagá' delves into the complexities of a transactional relationship, where love and affection are exchanged for material wealth. The lyrics are a poignant exploration of the emotional toll such relationships can take on both parties involved. Sabina's narrative voice is one of resignation and finality, as he declares that he owes nothing and asks to be forgotten. The repeated phrase 'bien paga' (well-paid) underscores the transactional nature of the relationship, where love is commodified and reduced to a mere financial exchange.

The song's protagonist acknowledges that both he and his partner have lost something valuable in the relationship. He admits to having paid for her affection with gold, and in return, she gave him her love. However, this love was not genuine but rather bought and paid for, which is a source of mutual loss and regret. The line 'No te quiero, no me quieras' (I don't love you, don't love me) highlights the emotional detachment and the realization that their relationship was never based on true affection.

Sabina also introduces a twist by revealing that he has found someone else, but this new person gave him a kiss that was not paid for, symbolizing a rare moment of genuine affection. This contrast between paid and unpaid love serves to emphasize the emptiness of his previous relationship. The song concludes with a sense of closure, as he leaves behind the emotional baggage and material remnants of their time together, suggesting a desire to move on and find something more meaningful.