La Manzana
Justin Quiles
The Forbidden Fruit: A Tale of Temptation and Desire
Justin Quiles' song "La Manzana" delves into the complexities of a forbidden and intoxicating relationship. The recurring metaphor of the apple, reminiscent of the biblical story of Adam and Eve, symbolizes temptation and the allure of the forbidden. Each time the protagonist 'bites the apple,' he acknowledges the danger and the 'poison' that comes with it, yet he is irresistibly drawn to it. This metaphor highlights the irresistible pull of a relationship that is both thrilling and perilous.
The lyrics also explore the duality of pleasure and pain in this clandestine affair. The protagonist is aware that the relationship is not genuine and that his partner has someone else, yet he is captivated by the intense physical and emotional connection they share. The lines "Que me da castigarte en la oscuridad / Como si lo nuestro fuera de verdad" (That makes me punish you in the dark / As if what we have were real) reflect the internal conflict between the fantasy of their bond and the harsh reality of its impermanence. This duality is further emphasized by the repeated references to secrecy and the thrill of hidden encounters.
Moreover, the song touches on the addictive nature of such a relationship. The protagonist describes his partner as 'veneno' (poison) and acknowledges the paradox of being drawn to something inherently harmful. The lyrics "Te juro que no puedo en esta distracción / Yo te quiero, yo te odio, es mi puta adicción" (I swear I can't in this distraction / I love you, I hate you, it's my damn addiction) encapsulate the tumultuous emotions involved. This portrayal of love as an addiction underscores the powerful and often destructive nature of intense, forbidden desires.