Maquillaje
Malena Muyala
The Illusion of Beauty: Unmasking the Truth in 'Maquillaje'
Malena Muyala's song 'Maquillaje' delves into the themes of illusion, deception, and the transient nature of beauty. The lyrics open with a reference to the Spanish poet Lupercio Leonardo de Argensola, setting a contemplative tone that questions the authenticity of what we perceive. The sky, often seen as a symbol of purity and vastness, is revealed to be neither truly blue nor genuinely a sky, suggesting that appearances can be deceiving.
The song then shifts focus to a more personal narrative, addressing someone who uses makeup to mask their true self. The carmine and blush, trembling on the cheeks, symbolize the effort to present a facade of youth and vitality. The 'mask of clay' and 'greenish circles' under the eyes further emphasize the artificiality of this constructed image. The use of makeup here is not just a physical act but a metaphor for hiding emotional pain and vulnerability.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the speaker is deeply affected by this deception. The repeated use of the word 'mentiras' (lies) underscores the betrayal felt by the speaker. The makeup is not just on the face but has metaphorically 'made up' the heart, leading to a love that is ultimately based on falsehoods. The final lines poignantly capture the sorrow of realizing that the love and virtues once believed in were mere illusions. The song ends on a somber note, reflecting on the inevitable journey towards the 'final color,' a metaphor for death or the end of the facade.