Flor Pálida — Marc Anthony

anetteaponte
Feb 6, 2023
2 min read

Updated: May 4, 2023

Artist: Marc Anthony

Title: Flor Pálida / Pale Flower

Year: 2013

Composer: Fernando Borrego Linares "Polo Montañez"

Genre: Salsa

Music that shapes me includes many Spanish-speaking artists, but this song by Marc Anthony stands out. Marc Anthony is known as a Latin artist who interprets music with poetic lyrics and upbeat styles. Salsa is a type of music that is danceable, usually following an 8-count pattern. It incorporates a variety of instruments, including trumpet, piano, and maracas. Often, the lyrics may exude a tone completely contrasting to that of the instruments, which exemplifies the vivacity of Latin American culture. In the case of Flor Pálida, the tone follows the lyrical story of a new romantic encounter.

Growing up, Flor Pálida was played on the road, at parties, and even while doing house chores. I know the lyrics and beat like I know the back of my hand. When I first listened to this song, I interpreted its exact depiction of a patient, caring love. During this transitionary period of my life, however, I am starting to connect the "pale flower" to the self. As I focus on self-love, I aim to tend to every need, nurturing the parts of me that need it the most—and those I was previously unaware of. Much like Marc Anthony, I never want this love to dwindle.

Connection to Playlist

Following Chimes of Freedom, the tone of this song is a significant contrast in the playlist sequence. That said, I think it applies well because I interpret the salsa instruments as the producers of the chimes of freedom. In line with the playlist title, Flor Pálida begins the third trinity formation, making it a "Gold" reference. To me, there is nothing more valuable than love, especially self-love.