Por Amor
Roberto Carlos
The Depths of Love and Pride in 'Por Amor'
Roberto Carlos' song 'Por Amor' delves into the complex emotions of love, pride, and longing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who hears that his former lover is considering returning to him. Despite his deep feelings for her, he struggles with his pride and the pain of their past. The song captures the bittersweet nature of love, where the heart yearns for reconciliation, but the mind is wary of repeating past mistakes.
The protagonist's pride is a significant theme in the song. He acknowledges that he still holds onto a bit of pride, even though he is almost 'dead' from the pain of their separation. This pride prevents him from easily accepting his lover back, as he doesn't want to continue living in a state of emotional turmoil. The lyrics reflect a deep internal conflict, where the desire for love is at odds with the need for self-respect and dignity.
The imagery of a 'submundo' or 'underworld' where the protagonist survives without knowing if he can believe in love again is powerful. It symbolizes the dark and uncertain place he finds himself in without his lover. The repetition of 'olvidate de mi' (forget about me) underscores his struggle to let go and move on, even as he holds onto the hope that she might return. The song beautifully captures the essence of love's complexities, where emotions are intertwined with pride, pain, and the longing for a second chance.