The Fragile Beauty of Heartache | Como La Flor | Selena


Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, known as 'Selena', was an icon in the world of Latin music during the peak of her career in the 1990s. Among her repertoire, one song that remains iconic is "Como La Flor." This beautiful and poignant melody carries a profound meaning, which reflects the trials and tribulations of love.
"Como La Flor," translates to "Like The Flower" in English. On surface level, this might seem a simple metaphor referring to a flower's beauty and fragility. However, digging deeper into the lyrics reveals much more intense emotions; love, loss, and sorrow.
The lyrics of "Como La Flor" tell a story of a woman who is deeply in love. Unfortunately, despite her enduring love, her partner leaves her for someone else. The lines "Me marcho hoy yo sé perder" which means "I'm leaving today, I know how to lose", illuminate her acceptance of the painful reality. Despite the agony, she does not bear any grudge against her lover for leaving her, further exemplified in "Pero, ¡Ay! Cómo me duele" - "But, oh! How it hurts me."
The symbol of the flower in the song's title acts as a metaphor. Just as a flower wilts when it's neglected or mistreated, so too does love. This figurative comparison aptly signifies the decay of a relationship that once blossomed beautifully but wilted due to neglect.
When interpreting the song, one cannot overlook the emotion in Selena's voice. The raw vulnerability and aching sadness that characterize her performance add depth to the song's narrative. Even without understanding the lyrics word for word, listeners can feel the emotion that Selena pours into each note, making the song universally relatable and impactful.
"Como La Flor" was a key player in establishing Selena's career, propelling her into the spotlight of the Tejano music scene, and later making her an international sensation. Even after her tragic death, Selena's music continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide.
In conclusion, the enduring power of "Como La Flor" lies in its deeply moving lyrics and Selena's poignant performance. It offers a glimpse into the pain that love can often bring, and despite the intense sorrow, the underlying message is one of acceptance and resilience. Through "Como La Flor," Selena shared a universal human experience, forever securing her presence in the hearts of music lovers everywhere.
