Forastera
Mario Pereyra Y Su Banda
A Yearning Heart's Plea to a Stranger
In the song 'Forastera' by Mario Pereyra Y Su Banda, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man deeply infatuated with a mysterious woman, referred to as 'forastera,' which translates to 'stranger' in English. The song opens with a plea for a simple glance and a smile from this enigmatic woman, highlighting the man's intense longing and admiration. The use of the word 'forastera' emphasizes the distance and unfamiliarity between them, yet it also adds a layer of intrigue and allure to the woman's character.
The lyrics further delve into the man's emotional state, describing how his mouth turns to amber and his eyes shine brightly when she is near. This metaphor suggests that her presence has a transformative effect on him, filling him with warmth and light. The repeated refrain, 'yo te quiero forastera, yo te adoro forastera, por ti sufro forastera, ven dame tu amor,' underscores his deep affection and the pain of unrequited love. The repetition of 'dame tu amor' (give me your love) is a heartfelt plea, showcasing his desperation and earnest desire for her affection.
Mario Pereyra Y Su Banda's musical style, often characterized by its emotive and passionate delivery, complements the lyrical content perfectly. The song captures the universal theme of longing and the bittersweet nature of love that is just out of reach. The cultural context of the song, with its roots in Latin American music, adds an additional layer of depth, as it reflects the romantic and often dramatic expressions of love found in the region's musical traditions.