Canción Para Vestirse

María Elena Walsh's 'Canción Para Vestirse' is a playful and imaginative song that captures the whimsy of a morning routine through the eyes of various animals. The song's title, which translates to 'Song to Dress By,' sets the stage for a series of vignettes where animals engage in human-like behavior as they get ready for the day. The repetitive structure of the lyrics, with the refrain 'Tira con tirita y ojal con botón' (which loosely translates to 'Pull with a little strip and eyelet with a button'), evokes the motions of dressing up, perhaps suggesting the fastening of clothes with buttons and ties.

The song's charm lies in its anthropomorphic portrayal of animals. A frog peeks through the window, a bird searches for its shoe under a branch, and mice remove their nightgowns, all of which paint a picture of a fantastical world where animals mimic human actions. The humor is evident as a hen dresses up while laughing, and a cat complains about waking up early, a sentiment many listeners can relate to. The absurdity of a toad finding it preposterous to have chocolate for breakfast adds to the song's playful tone, inviting children to imagine and laugh along.

María Elena Walsh was an Argentine poet, musician, playwright, and novelist known for her children's literature. Her work often includes themes of childhood, imagination, and the subversion of traditional narratives. 'Canción Para Vestirse' is a testament to her ability to create a magical and engaging world for children, encouraging them to see the joy and humor in everyday activities. The song's simplicity and catchy melody make it a delightful addition to any child's music collection, and its underlying message of finding fun in the mundane resonates with audiences of all ages.