Yo También Sé Jugarme La Boca
Joaquín Sabina
Navigating Love and Social Hierarchies in 'Yo También Sé Jugarme La Boca'
Joaquín Sabina's song 'Yo También Sé Jugarme La Boca' delves into the complexities of love, social hierarchies, and self-worth. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who finds himself infatuated with a woman who is the epitome of allure and social grace. She is described as 'el pez con mejores caderas del mar de la moda,' indicating her high status and desirability. Despite her charm, she is accessible to many, including the narrator, who feels like 'el último mono,' or the least important person in her life. This sets the stage for a narrative about unrequited love and the social barriers that often accompany it.
The song also explores themes of invisibility and longing. The narrator describes himself as 'el hombre invisible,' someone who dreams of an impossible love. This sense of invisibility is compounded by the social structures that keep him at a distance from the woman he desires. The lyrics 'Porque siempre hubo clases y yo soy el hombre invisible' highlight the rigid social classes that prevent him from fully engaging with her. Despite these barriers, he asserts his capability to love and be loved, stating, 'Yo también sé jugarme la boca, yo también sé besar,' which translates to 'I also know how to play with my mouth, I also know how to kiss.' This line serves as a declaration of his own worth and ability to engage in romantic endeavors, even if society deems him unworthy.
The song concludes with a bittersweet farewell, as the narrator reflects on a fleeting romance that was never meant to last. The lines 'Pero un día retiraron las mesas y hasta otro verano' signify the end of a season and a temporary love affair. The narrator is left to ponder the unfairness of the world, yet he remains defiant, ready to assert his place in the social and romantic arenas. Sabina's poignant lyrics and emotive storytelling capture the essence of human longing, social disparity, and the quest for self-affirmation in a world that often feels unjust.