Total

Vikki Carr's song 'Total' delves into the emotional landscape of a person who has faced rejection and heartbreak but emerges with a sense of resilience and self-worth. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has been humiliated and dismissed by a lover, yet refuses to be consumed by despair. Instead, the protagonist acknowledges the pain but also recognizes their own strength and capacity to move on. The repeated use of the word 'total' underscores the completeness of their acceptance and the finality of their decision to let go.

The song employs vivid metaphors to convey the depth of the protagonist's emotions. For instance, the line 'Pensar que llegar a quererte es creer que la muerte se pudiera evitar' (Thinking that loving you is like believing death could be avoided) highlights the futility and inevitability of their unrequited love. This metaphor not only emphasizes the intensity of their feelings but also the realization that some things are beyond control. The protagonist's declaration that they are 'cansada de tanto besar' (tired of so much kissing) further illustrates their exhaustion from the emotional turmoil and their readiness to move forward.

Culturally, the song resonates with themes of dignity and self-respect, which are significant in many Latin American narratives of love and loss. Vikki Carr, known for her powerful voice and emotive delivery, brings these themes to life, making 'Total' a poignant anthem for anyone who has experienced the pain of unreciprocated love. The song's message is clear: while love can be overwhelming and consuming, it is possible to find strength and reclaim one's sense of self in the aftermath of heartbreak.