"Despedida" (English: "Farewell") is a song recorded by Colombian singer Shakira for the extended play (EP) Love in the Time of Cholera (2008). The song was written by her and Pedro Aznar originally for the Mike Newell-directed 2007 movie adaptation of Colombian writer Gabriel García Márquez's 1985 novel Love in the Time of Cholera. Antonio Pinto handled its composition and production. Shakira was initially offered a role by the producers of the movie to take part as the main protagonist. However, she refused the offer and accepted to collaborate with the musical team due to her friendship with García Márquez. Musically, "Despedida" is a folk song which discusses nostalgic love sentiments towards a person the protagonist lost.