Hay Que Ser Fuerte
Los Chiches Del Vallenato
The Heartache of Unrequited Love in 'Hay Que Ser Fuerte'
The song 'Hay Que Ser Fuerte' by Los Chiches Del Vallenato, a Colombian Vallenato group, delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the struggle to overcome the pain of betrayal. The lyrics express the narrator's disbelief and hurt upon realizing that their love and affection have been met with deceit. The song's title, which translates to 'One Must Be Strong,' encapsulates the central theme of resilience in the face of heartbreak.
The narrator grapples with the desire to hate the person who caused them pain but finds themselves unable to do so because of their inherent capacity to love. This internal conflict highlights the complexity of human emotions, where love and hate can coexist, yet the former often prevails. The lyrics 'Duele, realmente duele cuando uno quiere / Fuerte, hay que ser fuerte cuando nos hieren' ('It hurts, it really hurts when one loves / Strong, one must be strong when we are hurt') underscore the necessity of strength and fortitude when dealing with emotional wounds.
The song also touches on the theme of realization and regret, suggesting that the person who inflicted the pain will eventually recognize the value of the love they took for granted. However, by then, it will be too late, as the narrator vows not to show their vulnerability despite the lingering desire for reconciliation. The repeated lines about giving so much love and the pain of a dream ending here serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in love and the harsh reality of its potential unreciprocation.