El Mala Estrella

Pedro Infante's song "El Mala Estrella" tells the poignant story of a man who seems to be cursed with bad luck, particularly in matters of the heart. The song is a corrido, a traditional Mexican narrative ballad, which often tells stories of love, betrayal, and social issues. In this case, the protagonist is deeply in love with a woman who does not reciprocate his feelings. The repeated phrase "nació con mala estrella" (born under a bad star) underscores his perpetual misfortune.

The lyrics reveal the man's futile attempts to win the woman's affection, despite being advised by a friend to move on. The friend, who narrates the song, tries to console him by pointing out that the woman is interested in someone else, a man who is also a friend of the protagonist. This adds a layer of complexity and pain to the situation, as the protagonist is not only dealing with unrequited love but also the betrayal of a friend.

The song captures the essence of unfulfilled dreams and the agony of loving someone who does not love you back. The protagonist's persistence, despite clear signs that his love is unreturned, highlights the irrational nature of love and the suffering it can bring. The suggestion to drown his sorrows in alcohol, which even fails to bring him solace, further emphasizes his deep despair and the sense that his bad luck is inescapable.

"El Mala Estrella" is a touching narrative that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of unrequited love. It also reflects the cultural significance of the corrido in Mexican music, serving as a vehicle for storytelling and emotional expression.