La carta
Gualberto Ibarreto Lyrics

The lyrics of Gualberto Ibarreto's song La Carta are about a man who is about to read a letter that he received yesterday from his lover, which was written in her own handwriting. However, he is hesitant to read it because he fears that it might contain bad news that will shatter his heart. He requests clarity and darkness for different reasons; clarity so that he can read it without any distractions, and darkness so that he can tear it apart if he doesn't like what he reads. The man is bitter and angry and calls the letter "wretched," indicating that it contains something negative. He ends the song by pointing out the ingratitude and suffering that come with receiving such a letter.

The song is an emotional one that touches on universal themes of love, heartbreak, and bitterness. It speaks to the experience of many people who have received similar hand-written letters from their lovers or ex-lovers. The lyrics are simple but expressive, which makes it easy for listeners to connect with the emotions expressed in the song. Overall, the song is a poignant reminder that love has both highs and lows and that receiving a letter from a lover can sometimes be the latter.

- La Carta was written by the Venezuelan composer Rafael "Pollo" Brito.
- Gualberto Ibarreto, who was known as "El Tío" (the uncle) in Venezuela, is a prominent singer of folk music in the country.
- The song was first released in 1977 and became an immediate hit in Venezuela and other Latin American countries.
- It has been covered by many other Latin American artists, including Celia Cruz, who included it on her album "Regalo del Alma" in 2003.
- The song is considered a classic of the folk music genre in Venezuela.
- Gualberto Ibarreto has cited the song as one of his favorites and has performed it many times throughout his career.
- The lyrics of the song were written by the Venezuelan poet Rafael Cadenas.
- The use of darkness as a metaphor for the man's fears and anger is a common motif in Latin American folk songs.
- The song's melody is simple and repetitive, which adds to its emotional impact.
- The song's theme of heartbreak and longing resonates with many listeners, making it a popular choice for covers and reinterpretations.

Chords (if known): D, A, Bm, G, F#m, Em, A7.