Me Plantó La Princesita Azul
Joaquín Sabina
The Heartbreak of the Blue Princess: A Tale of Unrequited Love
Joaquín Sabina's song "Me Plantó La Princesita Azul" delves into the bittersweet experience of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that follows. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a fleeting romance with a woman who is described as a superficial and heartless 'princesita azul' (blue princess). The imagery of her attire, including a skirt, high heels, and removable underwear, suggests a sense of impermanence and detachment. The reference to her cleavage as 'la ermita del deseo' (the hermitage of desire) where atheists kneel, adds a layer of irony and highlights the poet's sense of worship towards someone who ultimately does not reciprocate his feelings.
The song's narrative reveals the poet's realization that this woman was never meant for him. Her primary concern is material wealth ('la liquidez era su meta'), and his charm ('sex-appeal') diminishes as he finds himself disinherited and abandoned. The recurring motif of being left 'en mitad de un blues' (in the middle of a blues) underscores the melancholic and introspective nature of his heartbreak. Despite his age and experience, he admits to not learning from his past mistakes, as he continues to be drawn to this 'terca pasión' (stubborn passion) and 'dulce tormento' (sweet torment).
The song also touches on the poet's retreat to a place of forgetfulness ('donde el olvido'), which he describes as a boring country. This metaphorical retreat signifies his attempt to escape the pain of unrequited love. However, even in this place, he is haunted by memories of the 'princesita azul'. The contrast between his intellectual pursuits, such as reading Marcel Proust, and her disinterest in them, further emphasizes the disconnect between them. Yet, despite her flaws, she inspires his best songs when they are together, highlighting the complex and often contradictory nature of love and inspiration.
"Me Plantó La Princesita Azul" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, the pain of rejection, and the struggle to move on. Sabina's lyrical storytelling captures the essence of a love that is both tormenting and inspiring, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.