Mal Acostumbrado

Julio Iglesias' song 'Mal Acostumbrado' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and lingering pain that follows a love lost. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who feels discarded and abandoned, likening himself to a 'ticket de ida y vuelta' (a round-trip ticket) and a 'juguete de cartón' (a cardboard toy). These metaphors highlight the transient and disposable nature of his relationship, emphasizing how he was merely a temporary amusement for his lover. The imagery of being left 'tirado en la estación' (thrown at the station) further underscores his sense of abandonment and betrayal.

The chorus reveals the profound impact this love has had on him, describing how he has become 'mal acostumbrado' (badly accustomed) to the love he once had. This phrase suggests that he has grown dependent on the affection and presence of his lover, to the point where he feels like a 'alma en pena' (a tormented soul) condemned by the absence of their body. The repetition of this sentiment throughout the song underscores the depth of his emotional dependency and the difficulty he faces in moving on.

In the latter part of the song, Iglesias introduces 'mi amiga la tristeza' (my friend sadness), personifying his sorrow as a constant companion. This sadness advises him to laugh and forget, yet he finds it impossible to heed this advice. The plea to 'devuélveme un trocito de mi vida' (give me back a little piece of my life) and 'devuélveme aunque sea de mentira' (give me back even if it's a lie) reflects his desperate desire to reclaim some semblance of his former happiness, even if it means living in a comforting illusion. The song poignantly captures the struggle of letting go and the haunting presence of a love that once was, making it a relatable and emotionally charged piece for anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken heart.