Dos Alpargatas

Marea's song 'Dos Alpargatas' is a deeply emotional and poetic exploration of longing, separation, and the struggle to maintain a connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals who are metaphorically described as 'two lame sparrows' and 'two sandals made of sackcloth,' emphasizing their vulnerability and the simplicity of their bond. The imagery of a bed as a port where no ship docks suggests a sense of emptiness and unfulfilled desire, while the fleeting moments of sunlight on the terrace contrast with the overwhelming sadness that fills their hearts.

The song delves into the narrator's internal conflict and self-reflection. He describes himself as a 'borrico' (a donkey), a symbol of stubbornness and foolishness, who has tried to stay with his loved one but ultimately fails. The metaphor of 'swimming in seas of wheat' and the bread getting dirty from self-absorption highlights the futility of his efforts and the contamination of something pure by his own actions. The recurring theme of doubt and the need to lock it away ('echa el pestillo') further underscores the internal struggle and the desire to protect the fragile connection they share.

As the song progresses, the narrator's sense of despair deepens. The 'bad luck' that strengthens at his doorsteps and the forgetfulness that comes with braying like a donkey illustrate his growing sense of hopelessness. The final lines, where he contemplates the possibility of life cornering him and luck betraying him, encapsulate the overarching theme of inevitable separation and the pain of unfulfilled love. 'Dos Alpargatas' is a poignant reflection on the complexities of love, the pain of separation, and the internal battles that accompany such profound emotions.