A Esa
Pimpinela
The Tug of War for Love in Pimpinela's 'A Esa'
Pimpinela, a duo known for their dramatic and often confrontational style of music, often referred to as 'música de pareja', presents a vivid narrative of jealousy and challenge in their song 'A Esa'. The lyrics depict a conversation, presumably between two people in a troubled relationship, where one partner is confronting the other about a third party – 'esa', or 'that woman' – who is perceived as an interloper. The song's structure, with its call-and-response format, is characteristic of Pimpinela's musical dialogues, which often resemble scenes from a play or a soap opera.
The protagonist in 'A Esa' is challenging the other woman to take over her role completely, not just the romantic aspects but also the mundane responsibilities of their shared life. The lyrics suggest a mix of sarcasm and bitterness, as the speaker taunts the other woman with the reality of what being with her partner truly entails – beyond the glamour, there are 'miserias', or miseries, to deal with. This could be interpreted as a critique of infidelity, where the person being cheated on is pointing out that the affair is based on an illusion that ignores the less appealing aspects of a long-term relationship.
The song also touches on themes of emotional neglect and the yearning for a lost connection. The partner's defense of 'esa' highlights that she brought back feelings and attentions that had been missing in the relationship. This acknowledgment adds a layer of complexity to the situation, as it's not just about jealousy, but also about the recognition of what has been lacking between the couple. 'A Esa' is a powerful exploration of the emotional turmoil that arises from infidelity, the confrontation of a rival, and the painful admission of one's own shortcomings in love.