Hiling

Malvin Drake's song 'Hiling' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the deep yearning that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person praying in the darkness, hoping that their love will be reciprocated. The recurring imagery of the wind and darkness symbolizes the uncertainty and the elusive nature of the desired love. The protagonist's prayers are carried by the wind, a metaphor for their hopes and dreams being sent out into the world, uncertain if they will ever reach their intended destination.

The song's chorus, 'Oh, pag-ibig na minimithi, sa'n ka man nakatingin, aking pag-ibig na hinihiling, sana ako ay marinig dito sa ilalim ng dilim,' translates to 'Oh, love that I long for, wherever you are looking, my love that I wish for, I hope you hear me here in the darkness.' This plea encapsulates the essence of the song: a heartfelt wish for the beloved to notice and reciprocate the feelings. The darkness mentioned throughout the song can be interpreted as the emotional state of the protagonist, who feels lost and unseen in their love.

The song also touches on the regret of missed opportunities, as seen in the lines 'Sa mga oras na dumating, 'di man lang naiparating, ang pag-ibig na hinihiling.' This translates to 'In the times that came, I couldn't convey the love I wished for.' This regret adds another layer of depth to the song, highlighting the pain of unspoken words and unexpressed emotions. The protagonist's longing is palpable, making 'Hiling' a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the ache of unrequited love.