Un Amor, Un Clavel
Los Manseros Santiagueños
A Serenade of Love and Longing
“Un Amor, Un Clavel” by Los Manseros Santiagueños is a heartfelt serenade that captures the essence of romantic longing and admiration. The song is a beautiful expression of love, where the singer uses vivid imagery and tender metaphors to convey his deep affection for his beloved. The recurring motif of a red carnation (clavel) symbolizes passion and love, which he wishes to place in her hair, signifying his desire to be a part of her life and memories.
The lyrics are rich with sensory details, describing the beloved’s physical features with poetic elegance. Her eyes are compared to flowers, and her lips to the sweet mistol fruit, emphasizing their allure and the singer’s yearning to kiss them. The repetition of the desire to kiss her “labios rojos” (red lips) until he sighs underscores the intensity of his emotions. This repetition not only highlights his longing but also creates a rhythmic and hypnotic quality to the song, drawing the listener into the depth of his feelings.
Los Manseros Santiagueños, known for their traditional Argentine folk music, infuse this song with cultural elements that resonate with their audience. The use of natural imagery, such as flowers and fruits, reflects the rural and pastoral themes often found in their music. The song’s structure, with its repetitive and melodic lines, mirrors the traditional serenades or “serenatas” that are a staple in Latin American romantic expressions. Through “Un Amor, Un Clavel,” the band not only showcases their musical heritage but also connects with universal themes of love and desire, making it a timeless piece that speaks to the heart.