Zugana Manuela

Oskorri's song 'Zugana Manuela' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love, capturing the essence of longing and despair. The lyrics are a heartfelt confession from the protagonist, who is deeply infatuated with Manuela. The song opens with the protagonist lamenting how the devil tempted him upon seeing Manuela, leading to an instant infatuation. This metaphor of the devil's temptation highlights the uncontrollable and almost sinful nature of his desire, suggesting that his feelings are both overwhelming and unwanted.

The second verse reveals the protagonist's frustration and hopelessness. He questions why Manuela became the owner of his heart, expressing a sense of betrayal and helplessness. The line 'Egiazki ez naiz ni bizardunen zale' (I am not truly fond of bearded men) could be interpreted as a metaphor for his own self-loathing or a reference to societal expectations that he feels he cannot meet. This verse underscores the internal conflict and the pain of loving someone who does not reciprocate those feelings.

In the final verse, the protagonist's obsession with Manuela is evident as he describes his sleepless nights filled with dreams of her. The imagery of seeing her dancing in the plaza of Donostia (San Sebastián) adds a layer of cultural context, grounding the song in a specific place and time. This vivid dream sequence emphasizes the protagonist's deep yearning and the haunting presence of Manuela in his thoughts. The song concludes with a sense of resignation, as the protagonist acknowledges the madness brought on by his unrequited love.

Oskorri, known for their traditional Basque music, often incorporates cultural and historical elements into their songs. 'Zugana Manuela' is no exception, blending personal emotion with cultural references to create a poignant narrative of love and longing.