Pollera azul de lino

Alfredo Zitarrosa's song 'Pollera azul de lino' is a poignant exploration of love, infidelity, and the passage of time, all encapsulated through the imagery of a blue linen skirt. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a clandestine affair, with the blue skirt serving as a silent witness to the events that unfold. The repeated mention of the skirt hanging in the window, catching the morning sun, symbolizes the hidden emotions and secrets that are brought to light with the dawn of a new day.

The blue linen skirt, described as turning the color of wine in the sun, represents the transformation of feelings and the intensity of the affair. The skirt's presence in the window is a bold statement, almost like a flag, signaling that the woman has not spent the night with her husband. This act of defiance and the skirt's transformation under the sun's rays highlight the emotional turmoil and the forbidden nature of the relationship. The lyrics suggest a deep connection between the lovers, one that is acknowledged but not openly discussed, as indicated by the line 'somos amigos' (we are friends).

As the song progresses, the imagery becomes more intense, with the sun described as 'violating' the skirt and 'sleeping' with the woman. This powerful metaphor underscores the invasive and consuming nature of the affair, as well as the inevitable exposure of their secret. The repetition of the phrase 'cuando venga la mañana' (when the morning comes) serves as a reminder that the truth will eventually come to light, and the consequences of their actions will be revealed. Zitarrosa's use of vivid imagery and metaphor in 'Pollera azul de lino' creates a rich, emotional narrative that captures the complexities of love, secrecy, and the passage of time.