Como la cigarra

Cecilia Echeñique's 'Como la cigarra' is a powerful anthem of resilience and rebirth. The song's lyrics, originally written by María Elena Walsh, speak to the human spirit's ability to endure and rise again despite numerous adversities. The repeated imagery of being killed and resurrected symbolizes the countless challenges and setbacks one faces in life. Yet, the protagonist remains undeterred, continuing to sing and live, much like the cicada that emerges from the earth after a long period of dormancy.

The metaphor of the cicada is central to the song's message. Cicadas spend years underground before emerging to sing in the sunlight, representing a cycle of death and rebirth. This natural phenomenon mirrors the human experience of enduring hardships and emerging stronger. The lyrics also touch on themes of gratitude towards adversity, as it is through these struggles that one finds the strength to continue. The line 'Gracias doy a la desgracia y a la mano con puñal' (I thank misfortune and the hand with the dagger) encapsulates this sentiment, acknowledging that pain and suffering can lead to personal growth and resilience.

Echeñique's rendition of the song adds a layer of emotional depth, with her voice conveying both the sorrow and the triumph inherent in the lyrics. The song also speaks to a collective experience, suggesting that everyone goes through periods of despair and darkness but can find hope and renewal. The final verse extends this message to the listener, offering a sense of solidarity and encouragement. 'Tantas veces te mataron, tantas resucitarás' (So many times they killed you, so many times you will resurrect) serves as a reminder that no matter how many times one is brought down, there is always the potential for rebirth and renewal.