Qué Puedo Hacer
Los Planetas
Unrequited Love and the Struggle to Move On: Analyzing 'Qué Puedo Hacer' by Los Planetas
The song 'Qué Puedo Hacer' by Los Planetas, a prominent Spanish indie rock band, delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the difficulty of moving on. The lyrics express the protagonist's persistent affection for someone despite the passage of time, highlighting the pain and frustration that accompanies loving someone who does not reciprocate those feelings.
Throughout the song, the repeated actions of passing by the beloved's house and hoping for a chance encounter illustrate the depth of the protagonist's longing and the routine of hope that has formed over time. This routine, however, has become a source of exhaustion and despair, as indicated by the lines 'Estoy harto de esperar' (I'm tired of waiting) and 'Esto es mas de lo que puedo soportar' (This is more than I can bear). The song captures the essence of hope turning into weariness as the protagonist realizes the futility of their efforts.
The resolution towards the end of the song, where the protagonist contemplates leaving the places that remind them of their unrequited love, signifies a crucial turning point. It reflects the painful but necessary decision to let go and stop allowing the past to dominate their life. This decision is fraught with emotional conflict but is portrayed as a step towards healing and finding peace.