Agua de Mar
Los Guaranies
The Unattainable Love in 'Agua de Mar' by Los Guaranies
Los Guaranies' song 'Agua de Mar' delves into the poignant theme of unattainable love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a heart struggling to move on from a past relationship. The narrator admits to lying to themselves, trying to convince their heart that they no longer love the person they once cherished. This self-deception is a defense mechanism against the pain of unrequited love, symbolized by the 'indifference' they encountered. The imagery of putting the person 'aun costado de mi vida' (to the side of my life) suggests an attempt to compartmentalize and distance themselves from the emotional turmoil.
The metaphor of 'agua de mar' (sea water) is central to the song's message. Sea water, though abundant, is undrinkable and represents something that is both essential and inaccessible. The narrator acknowledges that their paths are 'caminos paralelos' (parallel paths) that cannot converge, highlighting the futility of their efforts to be together. This metaphor extends to the idea of dying of thirst despite being surrounded by water, encapsulating the agony of longing for something that is perpetually out of reach.
The song also explores the futile attempts to find solace in new beginnings and other relationships. The narrator's efforts to 'volver a comenzar' (start again) and create new connections are met with failure, as the differences between them and their past love only grow. The search for a new partner who resembles the lost love is a recurring theme, but these new figures lack the 'magia y tu alegria' (magic and joy) of the original relationship. This underscores the irreplaceable nature of true love and the enduring impact it has on one's heart and soul.