Lo Que Más Quiero

“Lo Que Más Quiero” by Inti-Illimani is a poignant exploration of unfulfilled desires and the pain of longing. The song uses vivid metaphors to convey the deep sense of loss and yearning experienced by the narrator. Each verse introduces a cherished element—be it a woman, a tree, a river, or the sky—that ultimately fails to provide the comfort or sustenance the narrator seeks. This recurring theme of deprivation underscores the emotional weight carried throughout the song.

The first verse speaks of a woman who, despite being deeply loved, brings bitterness instead of joy. The imagery of being left without her “plumage” as rain approaches suggests a sense of vulnerability and abandonment. This metaphor sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the narrator’s needs are continually unmet by the things he holds dear.

In subsequent verses, the tree, river, and sky symbolize different forms of essential support—shade, water, and light—that are denied to the narrator. The tree’s “hard reason” and the river’s relentless flow highlight the indifference of these elements to the narrator’s plight. The sky, once a source of light, becomes clouded, plunging the narrator into darkness. This progression from physical to emotional deprivation culminates in the final lines, where the narrator feels utterly exposed and vulnerable, as if only a knife could further strip away his well-being.

Inti-Illimani, known for their socially and politically charged music, often infuses their songs with deep emotional and cultural significance. “Lo Que Más Quiero” is no exception, offering a rich tapestry of metaphors that speak to universal human experiences of love, loss, and longing.