Cuando el tiempo quema

Miguel Bosé's song "Cuando el tiempo quema" is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a heart in turmoil, grappling with the pain of unfulfilled desires and the relentless march of time. The phrase "cuando el tiempo quema" (when time burns) serves as a powerful metaphor for the intense emotional suffering that comes with waiting and yearning for something or someone that seems just out of reach.

The song's imagery is rich and evocative, with references to a "golondrina pálida" (pale swallow) and "agua clara, sabe a hiel" (clear water, tastes like gall), which convey a sense of beauty tainted by bitterness. The recurring mention of "Caridad" (Charity) personifies the singer's object of affection, who is both a source of solace and pain. The lyrics suggest a deep, almost obsessive love, as the singer pledges his devotion and laments the wounds inflicted by this unrequited passion.

Bosé's use of metaphors and vivid descriptions creates a haunting atmosphere, where love is both a balm and a torment. The lines "Duerme ya mi inflamable deseo" (Sleep now, my inflammable desire) and "Canta, cántame" (Sing, sing to me) reflect a desperate plea for relief from the burning intensity of his emotions. The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the imagery of a withered bride and the trembling moon, symbolizing lost dreams and unattainable happiness. Through this lyrical journey, Bosé captures the essence of human vulnerability and the profound impact of love and time on the soul.