Maria Del Campo

León Gieco's song 'Maria Del Campo' paints a vivid portrait of a woman named Maria, who embodies the essence of rural life and the strength that comes with it. The lyrics describe Maria as someone who was born in the countryside, symbolizing freedom and a deep connection to nature. Her physical attributes are metaphorically linked to natural elements: her skin is like the wind, her feet like grass, and her eyes like the sky. These comparisons highlight her intrinsic bond with the land and the natural world around her.

Maria's hands are described as being as tough as the earth in the corral, a testament to her hard work and resilience. This imagery challenges traditional notions of femininity, as Maria herself asserts that one does not need soft hands to be a woman. This line is a powerful statement about the strength and capability of women, particularly those who work the land and contribute to their communities in ways that are often undervalued.

The song also touches on the theme of bringing the sweetness of rural life to the city, as Maria brings honey from the countryside to urban areas where flowers are scarce. This act symbolizes the transfer of natural, unspoiled goodness to places that lack it, emphasizing the value of rural contributions to urban life. Through 'Maria Del Campo,' Gieco celebrates the resilience, strength, and essential contributions of rural women, challenging stereotypes and highlighting the beauty and importance of their work.