Farolero

In 'Farolero,' José José delves into the theme of unrequited love and the lengths one might go to in order to be close to the object of their affection. The song is rich with metaphors, each verse painting a vivid picture of the singer's willingness to transform himself into various roles if it means being near his beloved. From a lamplighter to a street sweeper, a miner to a clockmaker, José José's character is ready to take on any form to bridge the gap between him and his love. However, despite his efforts, the love remains unattainable, symbolized by the recurring line, 'Nuestro amor es imposible, yo soy pez de río, tú eres pez de mar' (Our love is impossible, I am a river fish, you are a sea fish).

The metaphors used in the song are poignant and illustrative. For instance, the idea of becoming a lamplighter if the beloved were a streetlamp suggests a desire to bring light and warmth to her life, even if she stands alone. Similarly, the notion of being a street sweeper if she were a broom implies a wish to clean up and make things right, to be in constant contact. These metaphors highlight the singer's deep yearning and the futility of his efforts, as the beloved remains distant and unattainable.

José José, known as 'El Príncipe de la Canción' (The Prince of Song), is celebrated for his emotive voice and ability to convey deep feelings through his music. 'Farolero' is a testament to his talent for expressing complex emotions and the pain of unfulfilled love. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the heartache of loving someone who cannot or will not reciprocate. The passage of time, marked by the lines 'Y pasa un día y pasa un mes' (And a day passes and a month passes), underscores the enduring nature of this unrequited love and the scars it leaves behind.