A Veces
Ñejo
Unrequited Desires in Ñejo's 'A Veces'
The song 'A Veces' by Ñejo, a Puerto Rican artist known for his work in reggaeton and Latin trap, delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the desire for someone who is already in a relationship. The lyrics express the protagonist's longing to be more than just friends with the object of his affection, despite knowing that she is with someone else. The repeated phrase 'A veces quisiera poder ser mas que tu amigo' (Sometimes I wish I could be more than your friend) captures the essence of this yearning.
Ñejo's narrative in the song is one of a man who is deeply infatuated with a woman who confides in him about her relationship problems. He fantasizes about taking her away from her current partner, even to the extent of removing the ring her partner gave her and pawning it, symbolizing his wish to erase her current commitment and start anew with him. The lyrics 'Dime que vas hacer?' (Tell me what you're going to do?) suggest a sense of urgency and a plea for the woman to make a decision about her future, hinting at the protagonist's impatience and the pain of waiting.
The song also touches on themes of escapism and the desire to change one's circumstances, as seen in the lines about obtaining a passport, getting a divorce, and moving to the north where they can start over. This reflects a deeper longing for transformation and the hope for a different life, free from the constraints of the woman's current relationship. The use of the metaphor 'fumarme un leño contigo' (smoking a log with you) could be interpreted as a desire to share intimate moments and experiences, further emphasizing the depth of the protagonist's feelings.