Un poco tarde

José Feliciano's song "Un poco tarde" is a poignant narrative about abandonment, the passage of time, and the complexities of forgiveness. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who was left by her partner, who only left a brief note of apology. The woman initially feels a strong urge to confront and express her anger towards her partner, but she is stopped by the cries of their child. This moment of vulnerability and responsibility shifts her focus from vengeance to caring for their son, who is deeply affected by the absence of his mother.

As the years pass, the woman raises their child alone, telling him that his mother has gone to heaven. The child, now eight years old, prays for his mother every night, believing she is watching over him from a star. The song captures the deep emotional scars left by the mother's departure and the resilience of the woman who has had to fill both parental roles. The return of the mother after five years is met with a mixture of emotions. The woman offers forgiveness and even extends a helping hand, but she firmly states that the mother can no longer be a part of their lives. This decision is made to protect their son from further emotional turmoil.

The song is rich with metaphors and cultural references. The mother's heart is described as something to be thrown to the dogs, symbolizing the depth of betrayal and hurt. The child's belief that his mother is a star reflects a common cultural way of coping with loss, especially in Latin American traditions where the deceased are often thought to watch over the living. The song's emotional depth is further enhanced by Feliciano's soulful delivery, which adds layers of sorrow and resilience to the narrative.

"Un poco tarde" is a powerful exploration of themes such as abandonment, the passage of time, and the complexities of forgiveness. It highlights the strength required to move forward after being deeply hurt and the importance of protecting loved ones from further pain. The song's narrative and emotional weight make it a compelling piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or betrayal.