La Mariquita

The song 'La Mariquita' performed by Linda Ronstadt is a traditional Mexican tune that tells a story of affection and a touch of rebellion. Linda Ronstadt, known for her versatile music career, often incorporated traditional Mexican songs into her repertoire, celebrating her Mexican-American heritage. This song, with its simple yet evocative lyrics, captures the essence of a playful and tender romance set in a rural backdrop.

The lyrics speak of a character named Mariquita, who lives by the river, and the narrator's request to be covered with her shawl to fend off the cold. This request is symbolic, representing a desire for warmth, comfort, and perhaps protection that only a loved one can provide. The mention of the river may also signify life and continuity, with Mariquita being a central figure in the narrator's life. The song continues with a playful exchange about a kiss sent by Mariquita's mother, which is a humorous way to address the theme of courtship and the challenges of gaining parental approval in romantic pursuits.

The defiance comes through in the lines where the narrator contemplates the mother's anger at the relationship and cheekily wonders if they would be just as upset if the roles were reversed. The final lines assert individual autonomy, with the narrator claiming authority over their own lips, suggesting a sense of personal freedom and choice in matters of love. 'La Mariquita' is a charming snapshot of love, cultural norms, and the youthful spirit of defiance against those norms.