Caramelo
Pereza
The Bittersweet Longing in 'Caramelo' by Pereza
Pereza's song 'Caramelo' delves into the complex emotions of unrequited love and the yearning for someone who seems unattainable. The term 'caramelo' (candy) is used metaphorically to describe the object of the singer's affection, highlighting their sweetness and allure. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the singer's infatuation, as they dream of being close to this person and having everything they desire. However, the reality is starkly different, as the singer acknowledges that they must invent scenarios to cope with the absence of reciprocated feelings.
The song also explores the lengths to which the singer goes to distract themselves from their unfulfilled desires. They indulge in various activities, such as drinking and watching gossip shows, to fill the void left by the unrequited love. The line 'Y hace tiempo que no creo, que no creo en nada' (And it's been a while since I believed, since I believed in anything) reflects a deep sense of disillusionment and loss of faith, not just in love but in life itself. The singer's identity becomes intertwined with their longing, as they express that they are no longer themselves but a reflection of their unfulfilled desires.
The chorus, with its repeated plea 'No me quieres ver ni en broma, y en broma te digo quiéreme' (You don't want to see me even as a joke, and as a joke, I tell you to love me), underscores the desperation and hopelessness of the situation. The metaphor of a steamroller ('apisonadora') is used to describe the overwhelming impact of the beloved, who crushes everything in their path, including the singer's hopes. The song ends on a note of wishful thinking, imagining a future where roles are reversed, and the beloved experiences the same fear and longing. This poignant narrative captures the essence of unrequited love, blending melancholy with a touch of hope.