Samaritanas Del Amor

José Luis Perales' song "Samaritanas Del Amor" is a poignant and empathetic portrayal of women who work on the streets, often referred to as sex workers. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their lives, filled with both beauty and sorrow. Perales uses metaphors like "mariposas de escarcha y de cristal" (butterflies of frost and glass) and "gaviotas sin rumbo" (aimless seagulls) to describe these women, highlighting their fragility and the transient nature of their existence. These women, despite their hardships, are depicted as compassionate and giving, often leaving pieces of their hearts behind in the corners of cafes, gardens, and dimly lit brothels.

The term "Samaritanas del amor" (Samaritans of love) is particularly striking. It evokes the biblical story of the Good Samaritan, who showed kindness and compassion to a stranger. In this context, Perales elevates these women to a status of moral and emotional nobility, suggesting that their acts of love and kindness, though often overlooked or stigmatized, are deeply valuable. They are described as "muñecas frágiles de amor" (fragile dolls of love), who give their souls in exchange for a simple flower, symbolizing their yearning for genuine affection and recognition.

Perales also touches on the duality of their existence. These women disguise their sadness with a facade of brightness and joy, becoming eternal companions to streetlights, red traffic lights, and thieves. They dream of someone who might one day offer them a carnation-scented perfume and genuine love. This dream underscores their humanity and the universal desire for love and acceptance. Through his compassionate lyrics, Perales invites listeners to see beyond the surface and recognize the inherent dignity and worth of these women, who are often marginalized and misunderstood by society.