El Abandonado

Jorge Negrete's 'El Abandonado' is a poignant song that delves into the themes of abandonment, poverty, and vice. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has been left by his lover because of his financial situation and the fact that he is already married. The protagonist's lament is a reflection of his helplessness in the face of his circumstances, as he repeatedly asks, 'Qué voy a hacer?' (What am I to do?), underscoring his sense of resignation.

The song also touches on the protagonist's vices, which he admits to having deeply ingrained. He confesses to being a drunkard, a gambler, and a lover, which may be seen as both a cause and a consequence of his abandonment. The repetition of these vices in the lyrics suggests a cycle of behavior that the protagonist feels powerless to break. The phrase 'Abandonado sea por el amor de Dios' (Let it be abandoned by the love of God) can be interpreted as a plea for divine intervention or as an acceptance of his fate, leaving it in the hands of a higher power.

Jorge Negrete was a celebrated Mexican singer and actor known for his work in the Ranchera genre, which often features themes of love, patriotism, and nature. 'El Abandonado' is a classic example of Ranchera music, with its storytelling lyrics and emotional delivery. The song's narrative and Negrete's performance evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of loss and despair.