Como Dijo El Rey
Melendi
The Struggle of a Broken Soul: An Ode to Sabina
Melendi's song "Como Dijo El Rey" delves into the life of a man who feels perpetually out of sync with the world around him. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has never quite managed to grasp the complexities of life, symbolized by his inability to tie life's shoelaces or unbutton its metaphorical buttons. This man harbors a deep resentment towards life, feeling that it has never reciprocated any affection towards him. His soul, described as being stitched together yet still lost, reflects a profound sense of despair and resignation.
The repeated reference to "el rey, Sabina" is a nod to Joaquín Sabina, a renowned Spanish singer-songwriter known for his poignant and often melancholic lyrics. By invoking Sabina, Melendi aligns his character's struggles with the themes commonly explored in Sabina's music—heartache, disillusionment, and the gritty realities of life. The metaphor of a heart held together by wire in the key of F-sharp minor underscores the fragility and tension within the man's emotional state. This imagery is further compounded by the mention of a "factor seven" defense against hypocrisy, suggesting a heightened sensitivity to the insincerity and superficiality of those around him, particularly those who lose their composure through drug use.
The song also touches on themes of loneliness and unfulfilled desires. The man experiences a profound sense of isolation, whether in the presence or absence of others. His attempts to find solace in laughter are interrupted by the unexpected sound of someone else's tears, highlighting the pervasive sadness that surrounds him. The narrative of meeting a woman at a crosswalk who becomes his queen introduces a fleeting moment of hope, yet it is overshadowed by the overarching sense of loss and disconnection that defines his existence. Through these poignant lyrics, Melendi captures the essence of a soul struggling to find meaning and connection in a world that seems indifferent to his plight.