Cruz de Olvido

Maria de Lourdes' song 'Cruz de Olvido' is a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the pain of separation. The lyrics tell the story of a person who decides to leave their beloved, not because of a lack of love, but because they believe it is the best decision for both parties. The imagery of the 'cruz de olvido' (cross of forgetfulness) and 'cruz de amor' (cross of love) symbolizes the heavy burden of this decision, as the protagonist carries the weight of both forgetting and loving simultaneously.

The song's narrative unfolds with the protagonist's departure at sunset, a time often associated with endings and transitions. They express a deep internal conflict, swearing that the decision to leave is not due to a lack of love but rather a selfless act meant to prevent future pain. This self-sacrifice is a common theme in romantic ballads, where the lover chooses to endure personal suffering to spare their beloved from potential heartache.

The recurring motif of the boat carrying the 'cruz de olvido' and 'cruz de amor' across a 'mar de soledad' (sea of loneliness) further emphasizes the isolation and sorrow that accompany this decision. The protagonist acknowledges that they will suffer and die of boredom without their beloved, yet they prefer this fate over causing their partner any harm. The song concludes with a heartfelt farewell, urging the beloved to remember the love they shared, highlighting the enduring nature of true love even in the face of separation.

'Cruz de Olvido' is a testament to the complexities of love and the difficult choices it sometimes demands. It captures the essence of selfless love, where the well-being of the beloved takes precedence over personal happiness, and the enduring pain of separation is borne with grace and dignity.