Alma

Mariza's song "Alma" is a poignant exploration of loss, longing, and the haunting presence of a departed soul. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emptiness and desolation, as the narrator navigates through streets that feel devoid of life and meaning. The imagery of seeing people but feeling their absence, and the metaphor of cars lulling the narrator to sleep, underscores a profound sense of isolation and disconnection from the world around them.

The recurring mention of "Alma," which translates to "soul" in English, serves as both a literal and metaphorical anchor in the song. The narrator's soul is in pain, searching desperately for the presence of a loved one who has left. This search is described with an almost obsessive intensity, as the narrator looks out the window each night, unable to find peace or rest without the comforting sound of the loved one's voice. The repeated line, "Me miro en tu mirada y no veo nada" (I look into your gaze and see nothing), highlights the void left by this absence, emphasizing the depth of the emotional wound.

Mariza, known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, brings a raw and authentic expression to the song. Her background in fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre characterized by themes of longing and melancholy, is evident in the soulful delivery and the lyrical content of "Alma." The song captures the essence of saudade, a Portuguese word that conveys a deep emotional state of nostalgic or profound melancholic longing for something or someone that one loves.

"Alma" is a testament to the enduring impact of loss and the ways in which it can shape our perception of the world. It speaks to the universal experience of grief and the search for meaning in the wake of a loved one's departure, resonating deeply with anyone who has felt the ache of an absent soul.