Cuando Un Amor Se Muere

José José's song 'Cuando Un Amor Se Muere' delves into the poignant experience of a love that has withered away. The lyrics use the metaphor of a flower losing its fragrance to describe how their love has faded. This imagery evokes a sense of natural decay, suggesting that just as a flower cannot retain its scent forever, love too can lose its essence over time. The song reflects on the inevitability of this process, highlighting the sadness and helplessness that accompany the end of a relationship.

The chorus emphasizes the lingering bitterness that remains after love has died. The 'sabor amargo de despedida' (bitter taste of farewell) captures the emotional residue left behind. The act of 'mirando al suelo' (looking at the ground) instead of 'mirar al cielo' (looking at the sky) symbolizes the loss of hope and joy, as the individuals involved are now burdened by their sorrow and unable to find solace or inspiration. This shift in perspective underscores the profound impact that the end of love can have on one's outlook on life.

In the latter part of the song, José José questions the futility of seeking explanations for why love dies. He likens the process to an incurable illness, where sometimes the cause is clear, and other times it remains elusive. The lyrics suggest that dwelling on the reasons behind the breakup only intensifies the pain, as the 'cenizas' (ashes) of the relationship continue to burn. This introspective approach highlights the complexity of human emotions and the difficulty of moving on from a lost love.