Ajena
Nelson Velasquez
The Forbidden Romance of 'Ajena'
The song 'Ajena' by Nelson Velasquez, a prominent figure in the Vallenato genre, a style of music originating from Colombia, delves into the complexities of a forbidden love affair. The lyrics speak from the perspective of someone who is in love with a person who is already committed to someone else. The title 'Ajena' translates to 'Another's' or 'Belonging to someone else,' which sets the tone for the song's theme of illicit romance.
The protagonist of the song is in a dilemma, caught between the societal norms of fidelity and the overpowering emotions of love and desire. The lyrics reveal a confession between the two individuals, acknowledging their mutual attraction and the fact that they have fallen in love despite one of them being married to another person. The song captures the internal conflict and the guilt associated with loving someone who is 'ajena,' yet it also portrays the irresistible pull of their feelings, which they find difficult to suppress or ignore.
The song's narrative suggests a secret relationship that both parties know is morally questionable, but they are unable to resist. It touches on themes of secrecy, the struggle against societal expectations, and the power of love to override reason and commitment. The repeated lines 'Que nos amemos' (That we love each other) and 'Y que hasta hoy ya nos queremos demasiado' (And that until today we already love each other too much) emphasize the depth of their feelings and the complexity of their situation. 'Ajena' is a poignant exploration of love that defies boundaries, but also acknowledges the consequences and emotional turmoil that come with it.