Un Clavel

The song 'Un Clavel' by Rocío Jurado, a renowned Spanish singer known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, is a passionate expression of love and individuality. The lyrics speak of a person who values freedom as much as the wind that moves the olive trees and ripples the sea. This person enjoys living in the moment, lying in the shade of their thoughts, and singing at night. The song uses the metaphor of a carnation ('un clavel') to symbolize the singer's passionate love. The carnation is described as being cared for with intense devotion, to the point of putting the singer's life into it.

The carnation's reaction to seeing the beloved is to become so 'encendío' (lit up or inflamed) that it burns the singer's skin. This vivid imagery suggests a love that is so intense and consuming that it's almost painful. The reference to the carnation at the edge of the singer's mouth also implies a sensuality and a direct connection between the singer's words and feelings. The song also touches on themes of defiance and nonconformity, as the singer declares indifference to what people say about their comings and goings, emphasizing a strong sense of self and a disregard for societal judgment.

The mention of 'negro pelo' (black hair) and 'negros ojos' (black eyes) adds a layer of personal and physical description, which, along with the mention of 'negros celos' (black jealousy), deepens the emotional landscape of the song. The repeated imagery of the carnation and the burning sensation it causes serves as a powerful symbol of the singer's fiery passion and the deep connection with the beloved. Overall, 'Un Clavel' is a celebration of love's intensity and the freedom of the spirit, wrapped in the rich cultural tapestry of Spanish music.