Flor Cautivadora
Porfirio Ayvar
The Enchantment of an Andean Love
The song "Flor Cautivadora" by Porfirio Ayvar is a poetic expression of love and enchantment, set against the backdrop of the Andean landscape. The lyrics tell the story of someone who, innocently passing by the doorway of their beloved, becomes captivated by a 'bella flor cautivadora' or 'beautiful captivating flower.' This metaphorical flower represents the object of the singer's affection, whose beauty and charm have cast a spell on them. The repetition of this phrase throughout the song emphasizes the deep infatuation the singer feels.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the singer's love is not without its challenges. Despite being warned by others that the 'flower' is wilting, the singer remains undeterred, clinging even more tightly to their love. This suggests a theme of unyielding passion and perhaps unrequited love, where the singer's devotion persists in the face of adversity or disapproval. The use of the phrase 'Ymaraq vidayta hay carajuycirtiqa,' which could be translated as an expression of deep emotional turmoil, reinforces the idea of a love that deeply affects one's life.
The final verses of the song contrast cultivated flowers like carnations, jasmines, violets, and roses with the 'flor del campo' and 'flor del ande,' which the singer prefers. This preference for the wild, natural beauty of the Andean flower over more traditional, perhaps more refined flowers, speaks to a love for the authentic and the rustic. It's a celebration of indigenous beauty and a preference for what is natural and true over what is cultivated and possibly artificial.