Alfonsina y El Mar

The song "Alfonsina y El Mar" by Mercedes Sosa is a poignant tribute to the Argentine poet Alfonsina Storni, who is believed to have taken her own life by walking into the sea. The lyrics are filled with a deep sense of sorrow and solitude, reflecting on the final moments of Storni's life and her connection with the sea.

The opening lines paint a picture of a solitary path leading to the depths of the ocean, symbolizing Storni's final journey. The sea is a recurring motif in the song, representing both the beauty and the melancholy of her decision. The mention of 'pena y silencio' (pain and silence) suggests the inner turmoil and the unspoken struggles that Storni faced. The song also alludes to the mysteries of the sea, with references to 'caracolas marinas' (sea shells) and their songs, which could be interpreted as the call of the sea that ultimately lured Storni to her tragic end.

The chorus questions what new poems Storni was seeking, implying that her quest for solace or answers led her to the sea. The imagery of being accompanied by mermaids and sea creatures on her final journey adds a mythical layer to the narrative, while the request to dim the lights and let her sleep in peace suggests a longing for rest from life's hardships. The song is a hauntingly beautiful ode to Storni's life and art, and a reflection on the themes of loneliness, the search for peace, and the finality of death.