Tres Alpinos

The song 'Tres Alpinos' by Ángel Parra tells a simple yet evocative story set against the backdrop of returning from war. The lyrics describe three alpine soldiers coming back from battle, with the youngest among them carrying a bouquet of flowers. The repetitive nature of the verses, with the 'Di ay da, rataplan' refrain, gives the song a marching rhythm that echoes the military theme.

The narrative unfolds as the youngest alpine soldier catches the attention of a princess who is looking out from her window. She asks for the beautiful flowers he carries, to which he responds with a proposal of marriage. The song then moves to the interaction between the alpine soldier and the king, as he asks for the princess's hand in marriage. The simplicity of the lyrics, with the exchange between the characters, conveys a fairy-tale-like romance that is both charming and timeless.

Ángel Parra was a Chilean singer-songwriter and an important figure in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement, which used music as a form of social and political expression. While 'Tres Alpinos' may not overtly express political sentiments, it is reflective of Parra's storytelling ability and his knack for capturing human experiences. The song can be seen as a metaphor for the desire for normalcy and happiness after the chaos of war, as well as the universal longing for love and companionship.