Cuatro Milpas

The song 'Cuatro Milpas' by Arnulfo Jr. is a poignant ballad that speaks to the heartache and nostalgia associated with the loss of a cherished home and way of life. The title itself, 'Cuatro Milpas,' refers to four small fields or cornfields, which symbolize the remnants of what was once a larger, thriving ranch. The lyrics paint a picture of a desolate scene where only four fields remain of the singer's former property, evoking a deep sense of loss and longing for the past.

The imagery used in the song, such as the weeping palm trees and the dried-up lagoon, enhances the feeling of desolation and abandonment. The mention of a wire fence that has fallen down further illustrates the neglect and decay of what was once a place full of life. The singer's request to borrow the eyes of a 'morena' (a term of endearment for a dark-haired woman) to look upon the ruins of the once beautiful and happy home, underscores the personal and emotional connection to the land and the memories it holds.

The song also touches on the broader themes of change and the passage of time. The absence of cattle in the pastures, the disappearance of doves, flowers, and scents, all signify the end of an era. The singer mourns not only the physical loss of the ranch but also the loss of a simpler, happier time spent there, possibly with a loved one. The melancholic tone of the song resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of leaving behind a beloved place or witnessing the transformation of a cherished environment into something unrecognizable.