Hey guys! Ever heard the hauntingly beautiful Hijo de la Luna and wondered what the lyrics really mean? This song, a classic in the Spanish-speaking world, tells a captivating story filled with love, sacrifice, and lunar magic. We're going to dive deep into the lyrics, translating them and uncovering the rich story behind this iconic song. So, grab your headphones, maybe a tissue or two (it can get emotional!), and let's get started!

The Story Behind "Hijo de la Luna"

Before we jump into the translation, let's set the stage. Hijo de la Luna, which translates to "Son of the Moon," is a song originally performed by the Spanish band Mecano. Released in 1986, it quickly became a massive hit, not just in Spain but across Latin America and even in parts of Europe. The song is a powerful ballad that blends elements of Spanish folklore with a tragic love story. Knowing the context will definitely help us appreciate the lyrics even more. The beauty of Hijo de la Luna lies not only in its melody but also in the narrative it weaves, a tale as old as time yet forever etched in the stars. Think of it as a modern-day myth, a legend whispered in the cool night air, carried on the wings of song. This song has resonated with countless listeners because it touches upon universal themes such as love, longing, desire, and the consequences of our choices. It's a reminder that sometimes, the things we yearn for the most come at a great price, and that true love may demand sacrifices we never anticipated. The genius of Mecano lies in their ability to package this poignant story within a melody that is both haunting and beautiful, making it a song that lingers in your mind long after the music fades.

Diving into the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Translation

Okay, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the lyrics themselves! We'll go through the song verse by verse, giving you both the Spanish lyrics and their English translation. We'll also break down some of the more nuanced phrases and explain what they really mean. Understanding the lyrics in their original Spanish is awesome, but sometimes a direct translation doesn't quite capture the emotional weight. That’s why we’ll also explore the deeper meanings and cultural context behind certain lines. Prepare to be moved by the song's poetic imagery and the depth of its storytelling. The song opens with a sense of mystery and longing, setting the stage for the tragic events that unfold. As we delve deeper, we'll encounter themes of unfulfilled desires, the pain of sacrifice, and the cold, indifferent gaze of the moon, a silent witness to human drama. By the end of our lyrical journey, you'll not only understand the words but also the soul of Hijo de la Luna. So, let's embark on this exploration together, unlocking the secrets and emotions hidden within each verse.

Verse 1

Let's start with the very beginning. The first verse introduces us to the central conflict of the story: a desperate plea for love and the impossible bargain that follows.

Spanish:

Tonto el que no entienda Cuenta una leyenda Que una hembra gitana Conjuro a la luna hasta el amanecer

English Translation:

Foolish is he who doesn't understand A legend tells That a gypsy woman Conjured the moon until dawn

Here, we're immediately drawn into a world of folklore and magic. The gypsy woman's desperate act sets the tone for the entire song. The opening lines serve as a gateway to a world where ancient legends and mystical forces intertwine with human emotions. The phrase "Tonto el que no entienda" is a clever way to engage the listener, suggesting that there's a deeper meaning to be uncovered, a hidden truth for those who are willing to listen closely. This creates a sense of anticipation and intrigue, making us eager to learn more about the story that is about to unfold. The image of the gypsy woman conjuring the moon until dawn is incredibly powerful, evoking a sense of intense longing and unwavering determination. It hints at the depth of her desire and the lengths she is willing to go to in order to achieve her heart's desire. This verse acts as a prologue, setting the stage for a tale of love, sacrifice, and the haunting consequences of our deepest wishes.

Verse 2

The second verse reveals the gypsy woman's plea and the moon's chilling response. This is where the tragedy really begins to take shape.

Spanish:

Llorando pedia Al llegar el dia Quien hiciera el amar A un hombre de tez

English Translation:

Crying, she begged As the day arrived For someone to make her love A man of color

Spanish:

“Ay! Luna, Luna, Luna Si yo te llevo a tu are Tendrias un hijo Que quien te quiera amar”

English Translation:

“Oh! Moon, Moon, Moon If I give you your apex You'll have a son Who wants to love you”

In this verse, the gypsy woman's desperation is palpable. She's begging the moon for love, for a child, highlighting the depth of her longing. The use of "Llorando pedia" (crying, she begged) really emphasizes the intensity of her plea. It's a raw and vulnerable moment, showcasing the depth of her desire for love and companionship. She's not just asking for any love; she's asking for a love that will fulfill her deepest desires. The lyrics also reveal the societal context of the story, hinting at the challenges she might face in finding love due to the man's skin color ("A un hombre de tez"). This adds another layer of complexity to her plea, suggesting that she's facing not only personal longing but also societal obstacles. The direct address to the moon ("Ay! Luna, Luna, Luna") feels like a deeply personal and intimate conversation. It's as if she's confiding in a celestial being, sharing her innermost desires and vulnerabilities. This emphasizes the moon's role as a silent witness and a potential source of hope. Her offer to the moon – "Si yo te llevo a tu are / Tendrias un hijo / Que quien te quiera amar" – is a pivotal moment in the story. She's willing to make a significant sacrifice in exchange for her wish, setting the stage for the tragic consequences that will follow. It's a powerful illustration of the lengths people will go to for love, even if it means making a pact with forces beyond their control.

Verse 3

Now, the moon responds, but its answer is far from comforting. This is where the tragic bargain is struck.

Spanish:

“De que me sirve amado Si no puedo amarte Mas valdra tener Un hijo que pueda adorarte”

English Translation:

“What good is being loved to me If I cannot love It would be better to have A son who can adore you”

Spanish:

Luna, quiero un hijo Que sea de piel morena Luna, tú que tienes la luz Para cambiar mi ser

English Translation:

Moon, I want a son Who is dark-skinned Moon, you who have the light To change my being

In this verse, the moon reveals its own cold and calculating nature. It prioritizes adoration over genuine love, highlighting the themes of sacrifice and the price of desire. The moon's response, "De que me sirve amado / Si no puedo amarte" is chilling. It reveals a deep-seated inability to reciprocate love, suggesting a profound sense of isolation and emptiness. This sets the moon up as a complex and somewhat tragic figure in its own right. It's not simply a celestial body granting wishes; it's a being with its own limitations and desires. The moon's desire for a son who can adore it underscores the theme of unfulfilled longing that permeates the song. It's as if the moon, unable to experience the warmth of human connection, seeks to vicariously experience love through its offspring. This adds a layer of pathos to the story, making the moon's actions more understandable, if not entirely sympathetic. The gypsy woman's plea, "Luna, quiero un hijo / Que sea de piel morena" is a powerful statement of her desire for a child who reflects the man she loves. It's a celebration of his heritage and a rejection of societal prejudices. This line also reinforces the idea that her love is genuine and transcends superficial concerns. Her final plea, "Luna, tú que tienes la luz / Para cambiar mi ser," speaks to the transformative power of the moon and her belief that it can alter her destiny. She sees the moon as a source of magic and hope, capable of granting her deepest wishes. However, this plea also carries a hint of desperation, suggesting that she's willing to entrust her fate to a celestial being, even if it means making a difficult sacrifice. The moon's light, which she sees as a symbol of change, will ultimately cast a long shadow over her life and the life of her son.

Verse 4

The bargain is sealed, and the consequences are revealed. The sacrifice the moon demands is heartbreaking.

Spanish:

“Hijo de la luna”

English Translation:

“Son of the moon”

Spanish:

De padre canela nacio Una gitana que se hizo La que tanto habia rogado

English Translation:

A cinnamon-skinned father was born A gypsy woman who became The one who had begged so much

Spanish:

Y tumba la luna con la luz De su faz

English Translation:

And the moon buried with the light Of his face

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This verse marks the turning point of the story, where the consequences of the gypsy woman's bargain begin to unfold. The phrase "Hijo de la luna" becomes both a title and a haunting reminder of the pact she made. The lines "De padre canela nacio / Una gitana que se hizo / La que tanto habia rogado" reveal the birth of the child, the son of the moon, and the gypsy woman's fulfillment of her wish. The description of the father as "canela" (cinnamon-skinned) is a beautiful and evocative image, celebrating his heritage and adding to the song's rich tapestry of cultural references. However, the verse also introduces a sense of unease and foreboding. The line "Y tumba la luna con la luz / De su faz" is particularly striking. It suggests that the moon's light, which was once a symbol of hope and transformation, now carries a darker significance. The phrase "tumba" (bury) implies a sense of loss and sacrifice, hinting at the price the gypsy woman will have to pay for her wish. The light of the son's face, instead of illuminating the world, seems to diminish the moon's own brilliance, creating a sense of imbalance and foreshadowing the tragedy to come. This verse is a masterclass in storytelling, using concise and evocative language to convey a complex emotional landscape. It's a moment of both triumph and sorrow, where the fulfillment of a desire is intertwined with the seeds of future heartbreak.

Verse 5

The child is born, but he's pale and ghostly, reflecting the moon's cold light. This sparks jealousy and further tragedy.

Spanish:

Hijo de la luna”

English Translation:

Son of the moon”

Spanish:

Que costo caro aquella unión

English Translation:

That union cost dearly

Spanish:

No es hijo mio Que es hijo de la luna

English Translation:

He is not my son He is the son of the moon

In this verse, the tragedy deepens as the consequences of the moon's bargain become increasingly apparent. The repetition of "Hijo de la luna" serves as a haunting refrain, emphasizing the child's otherworldly nature and the price of his existence. The line "Que costo caro aquella unión" underscores the idea that the union between the gypsy woman and the moon came at a significant cost, a cost that is now beginning to be revealed. This sets a somber tone for the rest of the verse and the song as a whole. The father's denial, "No es hijo mio / Que es hijo de la luna," is a moment of intense emotional turmoil. His words are fueled by jealousy and suspicion, reflecting the societal pressures and prejudices that can tear families apart. He's unable to see the child as his own, instead viewing him as a product of the moon's influence. This rejection is a devastating blow to the gypsy woman and the child, highlighting the destructive power of mistrust and prejudice. The child's pale appearance, a reflection of the moon's cold light, becomes a symbol of his alienation and otherness. He's caught between two worlds, neither fully human nor fully celestial, and this sense of belonging is at the heart of the tragedy. This verse is a powerful exploration of the complexities of love, jealousy, and the challenges of accepting those who are different. It sets the stage for the final act of the drama, where the consequences of these emotions will play out in a devastating way.

Verse 6

In a fit of rage, the father kills the mother, and the child is abandoned to the moon, completing the tragic cycle.

Spanish:

Gitanos al creerse de honor Saco su sangre calé Una cuchillo en mano A la mujer embrujo

English Translation:

Gypsies believing in honor He drew his bloodCalé* A knife in hand The woman bewitched*

Spanish:

Y tumbo su hijo Que ya no le importo

English Translation:

And he dropped his son That he did not care for anymore

This verse is the climax of the tragedy, a moment of intense violence and heartbreak. The phrase "Gitanos al creerse de honor" highlights the destructive power of rigid social codes and the pressure to uphold a certain image of masculinity. The father's actions are driven by a twisted sense of honor, a belief that he must avenge what he perceives as a betrayal. This underscores the dangers of blind adherence to tradition and the tragic consequences that can result. The lines "Saco su sangre calé / Una cuchillo en mano / A la mujer embrujo" depict the murder of the gypsy woman in stark and brutal terms. The imagery is visceral and shocking, conveying the suddenness and violence of the act. The reference to "sangre calé" (Calé blood) emphasizes the father's ethnic identity and the cultural context of the tragedy. His actions are not just a personal crime; they are also a reflection of the societal pressures and prejudices that have shaped his worldview. The phrase "A la mujer embrujo" (The woman bewitched) suggests that the father views the gypsy woman as somehow responsible for his actions, further highlighting the themes of blame and denial. His inability to accept his own role in the tragedy underscores the depth of his emotional turmoil. The final lines, "Y tumbo su hijo / Que ya no le importo," are perhaps the most heartbreaking of all. The father's abandonment of his son is a final act of rejection, severing the last ties between him and the child. He is unable to see the child as anything other than a reminder of his perceived betrayal, and so he casts him aside, leaving him to the mercy of the moon. This verse is a chilling reminder of the destructive power of jealousy, prejudice, and the failure to communicate and understand one another. It's a tragic conclusion to a story that began with a desperate plea for love, highlighting the devastating consequences of choices made in anger and despair.

Verse 7

The final verse brings the story full circle, with the moon caring for the abandoned child, but his tears are a constant reminder of the tragedy.

Spanish:

“Luna, quiero un hijo Que sea de piel morena”

English Translation:

“Moon, I want a son Who is dark-skinned”

Spanish:

“Hijo de la luna”

English Translation:

“Son of the moon”

Spanish:

Toda las noches que haya Sera bueno si llora

English Translation:

Every night that there is It will be good if he cries

This final verse offers a bittersweet resolution to the tragic tale. The repetition of the gypsy woman's plea, "Luna, quiero un hijo / Que sea de piel morena," serves as a haunting echo of her original desire, highlighting the devastating irony of the situation. She got her wish, but at a terrible cost. The refrain "Hijo de la luna" reinforces the child's identity as the son of the moon, forever marked by his celestial origins and the tragic circumstances of his birth. He is a symbol of both the fulfillment of a dream and the devastating consequences of a desperate bargain. The final lines, "Toda las noches que haya / Sera bueno si llora," are perhaps the most poignant of the entire song. They suggest that the moon, now acting as a mother figure to the abandoned child, finds solace in his tears. The child's tears become a symbol of his grief and loss, but also a reminder of the love that was sacrificed to bring him into the world. The moon's acceptance of his sorrow is a gesture of compassion, but it also underscores the enduring sadness that will forever mark his existence. This verse leaves us with a sense of lingering melancholy, a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, there can be moments of tenderness and connection. However, the scars of the past remain, and the son of the moon will forever carry the weight of his origins and the sacrifices made in his name. The song ends on a note of quiet resignation, acknowledging the cyclical nature of tragedy and the enduring power of loss.

The Enduring Appeal of "Hijo de la Luna"

So, what makes Hijo de la Luna such a timeless classic? It's more than just a catchy tune; it's the powerful storytelling, the emotional depth, and the way it taps into universal human experiences. The song's themes of love, sacrifice, jealousy, and loss resonate deeply with listeners across cultures and generations. It's a story that has been told and retold in various forms throughout history, and Mecano's rendition captures the essence of this timeless narrative with remarkable skill. The song's enduring appeal also lies in its haunting melody and Ana Torroja's captivating vocals. The music perfectly complements the lyrics, creating an atmosphere of mystery and melancholy that draws the listener in. The song's arrangement, with its use of Spanish guitar and other traditional instruments, adds to its unique character and cultural richness. Hijo de la Luna is more than just a song; it's a work of art that continues to move and inspire listeners around the world. Its ability to evoke such strong emotions and tell a compelling story in just a few minutes is a testament to the power of music and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted tale. So, the next time you hear this song, take a moment to really listen to the lyrics and let yourself be transported to the world of lunar magic and tragic love. You might just discover a new layer of meaning in this timeless classic.

Hopefully, this deep dive into Hijo de la Luna has given you a new appreciation for this amazing song. From the lyrical translation to the story behind the music, there's so much to unpack and enjoy. Keep exploring the beauty of music, guys!