Cuando Yo La Vide

Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy's song 'Cuando Yo La Vide' is a vivid portrayal of a moment of infatuation and admiration. The lyrics describe the narrator's encounter with a woman who captivates him entirely. The setting is picturesque, with the woman coming from the river, carrying a fresh water jar on her waist. This imagery evokes a sense of rural simplicity and natural beauty, which is a common theme in Mejía Godoy's work, reflecting his Nicaraguan roots and the cultural essence of his homeland.

The narrator's reaction to seeing the woman is intense and immediate. Words like 'tembeleque' and 'cecereque' convey his physical and emotional response, highlighting his nervousness and awe. The description of her physical features, such as her 'linda pantorrilla' (pretty calf) and the movement of her 'rabadilla' (lower back), adds a layer of sensuality to the song. This moment of seeing her is so powerful that it leaves him feeling weak and overwhelmed, as if his very pulse has stopped.

The woman's eyes are described as more than just beautiful; they are likened to 'hogueras' (bonfires) and 'rilámpagos' (lightning) from Chinandega, a region known for its intense weather. This metaphor emphasizes the fiery and electrifying impact she has on him. Despite his desire to express his feelings and perhaps even propose marriage ('te llevo morena a los santos altares'), he is rendered speechless and physically affected by his emotions. The song captures the universal experience of being struck by love at first sight, blending cultural references and poetic language to create a rich, evocative narrative.