Costumbres
Rocío Durcal
The Heartache of Habit: Unraveling Rocío Durcal's 'Costumbres'
Rocío Durcal's 'Costumbres' is a poignant ballad that delves into the complexities of love and the pain of letting go. The song's title, which translates to 'Habits' in English, sets the stage for a narrative about the struggle between the heart's yearnings and the force of habit. Durcal, known for her emotive delivery and her contributions to the genre of Latin ballads, brings a depth of feeling to the lyrics that resonates with many who have experienced a similar emotional turmoil.
The lyrics speak to a conversation between two former lovers, where the protagonist implores her ex-partner to speak about his life and admits her conviction that he cannot forget her. This insistence on the impossibility of moving on suggests a deep connection that persists despite the end of their romantic relationship. The repetition of 'siempre volverás' (you will always return) emphasizes the cyclical nature of their attachment, hinting at the difficulty of breaking free from the patterns established during their time together.
The chorus reveals a stark reality: both parties have lost the love they once shared, replaced now by resentment or indifference. Yet, the protagonist confesses to missing her former lover, acknowledging that the force of habit – the comfort and familiarity of their past – is stronger than love itself. This revelation speaks to the human condition, where sometimes the routines and shared experiences can create a bond that is hard to sever, even when the emotional foundation has crumbled. 'Costumbres' is a testament to the enduring power of memory and the bittersweet grip of the past on the present.