Meaning of "Kiss of Fire" by Hugh Laurie

"Kiss of Fire" delves deep into the passionate and seductive world of the tango dance. The lyrics depict the tango as a burlón (mischievous) and compadrito (street-wise) art form that embodies the ambition and yearning of the narrator's suburbia. The tango is portrayed as an extraordinary conjuring of love turned into rhythm, born out of a distorted hope that emerged from the sordid slums and aspired to reach the heavens. It is described as a mix of emotions - anger, pain, faith, and longing - all captured within the innocent playfulness of the dance.

The lyrics also emphasize the transformative power of music, particularly the tango notes, which gave birth to the paicas (outlaw street musicians) and grelas (streetwise women). The tango is further described as a creator of a unique atmosphere, like the moon reflecting on puddles, and evoking sensuality through the swaying of hips. The intense desire that fuels the way the narrator loves is likened to a ferocious hunger, driving them uncontrollably.

The second part of the song shifts to a different perspective, where the narrator acknowledges the alluring danger of a lover's lips. The lyrics embody a metaphorical journey where the singer is drawn to the flame of desire and willingly surrenders to the kiss that sets their soul ablaze. The prospect of returning to a life without this passionate connection is unbearable, even though it threatens to consume them and reduce their world to ashes.

The overarching theme in "Kiss of Fire" is the inescapable power of desire. The lyrics suggest that resisting the intense attraction and trying to deny one's desires could be futile. Instead, the song embraces the idea of surrendering to the all-consuming passion, even if it leads to destruction. The narrator's words reflect a willingness to become a slave to the love they crave, highlighting the irrational and addictive nature of desire.

In essence, "Kiss of Fire" explores the all-encompassing nature of desire and the tango's ability to ignite passion. It weaves a narrative of intense longing, surrender, and the undeniable appeal of a lover's kiss.