El rey pobre

The song "El rey pobre" by Los Relámpagos del Norte is a poignant ballad that tells the story of a man who metaphorically refers to himself as a 'poor king' because of the sacrifices he has made for love. The lyrics express the deep sorrow and regret of a man who has given everything for the woman he loves, only to be left alone and in pain. The 'poor king' is a metaphor for a man who, despite his deep love and the metaphorical wealth of his emotions, ends up impoverished when his love is unrequited or lost.

The song's narrative unfolds as the man reflects on his past relationship, addressing the woman directly. He speaks of a time when she might feel tired of life and the man she is with, and he urges her to remember him, the one who is still waiting for her. The 'poor king' has sacrificed his all, symbolized by selling his 'palace,' to see her happy. This act of selling his palace is a metaphor for giving up his pride, status, or material possessions in the pursuit of her happiness. However, his sacrifices seem to have been in vain as he is left alone, his fortune gone with her.

The recurring image of the 'poor king' wandering the streets, weeping and looking at a portrait, underscores the depth of his heartache. The fall of the 'highest towers' symbolizes the great downfall or loss he has experienced due to his love. The song is a classic example of the norteño genre, which often features themes of love, heartbreak, and personal sacrifice, and is known for its storytelling through music.