Lágrimas Negras (part. Omara Portuondo)

The song 'Lágrimas Negras,' performed by Carlos Rivera featuring Omara Portuondo, is a poignant ballad that delves into the themes of love, loss, and the deep sorrow that accompanies a painful separation. The lyrics express the narrator's experience of being left behind, the death of their hopes, and the profound sadness of their loved one's departure. Instead of harboring resentment, the narrator chooses to bless the one who has caused them pain, even in their dreams, highlighting a sense of forgiveness and unyielding love.

The recurring phrase 'tiene lágrimas negras como mi vida' (has black tears like my life) suggests a metaphor for the depth of the narrator's grief, with the color black symbolizing the darkness and intensity of their emotions. The song's title itself, 'Lágrimas Negras,' reinforces this imagery of sorrow. The lyrics also touch upon the idea of moving on despite the pain, as the narrator expresses a willingness to follow their beloved 'aunque me cueste morir' (even if it costs me my life), indicating a deep attachment and the difficulty of letting go.

The song's narrative is further enriched by the metaphor of a gardener of love who plants a flower and leaves, while another comes to cultivate it, raising questions about love's ownership and the transient nature of relationships. The inclusion of this metaphor adds a layer of complexity to the song, as it reflects on the nature of love and the pain of seeing it nurtured by someone else after a separation. Overall, 'Lágrimas Negras' is a deeply emotional song that captures the essence of heartbreak and the bittersweet longing that lingers after a love has gone.