Costumbres
Manuel Medrano
The Power of Habit Over Love in 'Costumbres' by Manuel Medrano
Manuel Medrano's song 'Costumbres' delves into the complex emotions that arise when a relationship ends, yet the habits formed during that relationship linger. The lyrics speak to the struggle of moving on from a past lover, highlighting how deeply ingrained habits can be, sometimes even stronger than love itself. Medrano's soulful voice and poignant delivery add layers of emotion to the narrative, making the listener feel the weight of the memories and routines that refuse to fade away.
The song opens with a plea for communication, asking the former lover to share their life and feelings. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional entanglement that persists despite the absence of love. The repeated lines 'Siempre volverás una y otra vez' (You will always come back, again and again) emphasize the cyclical nature of these habits, suggesting that both parties are trapped in a loop of returning to each other, not out of love, but out of familiarity and routine.
Medrano also touches on the theme of resentment, acknowledging that while love may have faded, what remains is a mix of indifference and bitterness. The line 'No cabe duda que es verdad que la costumbre es más fuerte que el amor' (There is no doubt that it is true that habit is stronger than love) serves as the song's central thesis. It encapsulates the idea that the comfort of routine can overshadow the emotional connections that once existed, making it difficult to truly move on. This poignant observation resonates with anyone who has struggled to break free from the past, even when the emotional ties have long since frayed.