Granada
Jorge Negrete
Granada: A Passionate Ode to a Dreamed Land
Jorge Negrete's song 'Granada' is a heartfelt tribute to the Spanish city of Granada, a place that holds a special place in the singer's heart. The lyrics are rich with imagery and emotion, painting a vivid picture of a land that is both beautiful and melancholic. Negrete's voice, described as turning 'gitano' (gypsy-like) when singing about Granada, adds a layer of cultural depth, evoking the passionate and free-spirited nature often associated with gypsy music and culture.
The song describes Granada as a 'tierra ensangrentada' (blood-stained land) in the afternoons of bullfights, highlighting the city's historical and cultural ties to this traditional Spanish spectacle. The reference to 'los ojos moros' (Moorish eyes) speaks to Granada's rich history, influenced by centuries of Moorish rule, which has left an indelible mark on its architecture, culture, and people. The imagery of a 'jugosa manzana' (juicy apple) and 'flor de melancolía' (flower of melancholy) further emphasizes the city's allure and the bittersweet emotions it evokes.
Negrete's lyrics also celebrate the beauty of Granada's women, described as 'lindas mujeres de sangre y de sol' (beautiful women of blood and sun), and the city's vibrant, sun-drenched landscape. The offering of a 'ramo de rosas' (bouquet of roses) to the 'virgen morena' (dark-skinned virgin) symbolizes a deep reverence and admiration for the city's spiritual and cultural heritage. Through his passionate and poetic words, Negrete captures the essence of Granada, making it a timeless ode to a land that continues to inspire and enchant.