Envidia

José Feliciano's song 'Envidia' delves deep into the complex emotions of love and jealousy. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lover consumed by envy, not out of malice, but out of an overwhelming affection. Feliciano's soulful voice and poignant delivery amplify the raw emotion embedded in the words, making the listener feel the intensity of his longing and the depth of his love.

The song's repeated use of the word 'envidia' (envy) highlights the central theme. Feliciano is envious of everything that surrounds his beloved – the valleys, mountains, rivers, and streets she has crossed without him. This envy extends to her possessions, her shadow, and even the roses near her. The imagery used here is powerful, illustrating how every aspect of her life, no matter how trivial, becomes a source of envy for him because it is close to her.

One of the most striking lines is when Feliciano admits to being envious of his own voice when he says her name. This metaphor beautifully captures the paradox of his feelings – his love is so profound that even his own expression of it becomes a source of jealousy. The song concludes with the poignant realization that his envy is rooted in love. The repetition of 'es tan solo amor' (it's just love) serves as a reminder that his jealousy is not born out of bitterness but out of an intense, all-consuming love.

'Envidia' is a testament to the dual nature of love and jealousy, showing how they can coexist and even feed off each other. Feliciano's heartfelt performance and the evocative lyrics make this song a powerful exploration of the human heart's complexities.