Con La Mano Izquierda

Rocío Jurado's song "Con La Mano Izquierda" is a heartfelt tribute to the renowned Spanish bullfighter José Ortega Cano. The lyrics reflect on the twenty years of passion and dedication that Ortega Cano has poured into his craft, acknowledging the physical and emotional scars he has endured. The song opens by recognizing the high price he has paid to become a master in his field, with Jurado offering to heal his many wounds, both visible and invisible. This sets the tone for a narrative that intertwines admiration, empathy, and deep emotional connection.

The song is rich with metaphors that elevate the art of bullfighting to a sacred level. Jurado sings about breaking her voice in admiration of his sacred music, equating the act of singing to the act of bullfighting, both requiring the soul to be laid bare. The imagery of the left hand leading with the chest exposed symbolizes vulnerability and authenticity, qualities that are essential in both cante grande (great singing) and bullfighting. This metaphor extends to the idea of truth being naked, suggesting that true art, whether in music or bullfighting, is about exposing one's innermost self.

Jurado also delves into the personal side of Ortega Cano, describing him as a serious yet childlike figure, a man who embodies truth both inside and out. The song's emotional climax comes when she sings about feeling a bull's fierce charge as if it were a wound in her own body, illustrating the deep empathy and connection she feels with Ortega Cano. The repeated references to breaking and healing underscore the dual nature of his life—filled with both immense pain and profound artistry. Through this song, Jurado not only pays homage to Ortega Cano's skill and bravery but also highlights the emotional and physical toll of his profession, making it a poignant and powerful tribute.