María Va

Mercedes Sosa's song "María Va" paints a vivid picture of a woman named María, who traverses a harsh and unforgiving landscape. The lyrics describe María's physical and emotional journey, marked by her "rasgado" (slanted) eyes and "patitas chuecas" (crooked little legs). These physical descriptions evoke a sense of vulnerability and hardship. As María walks through the burning sands and under the scorching sun, she is metaphorically 'stepping on sorrows,' suggesting a life filled with challenges and pain.

The song also delves into María's inner world, where she seeks solace and companionship. The line "Quiso la siesta ponerle un niño a su soledad" (The siesta wanted to give her a child to her loneliness) is particularly poignant, indicating her deep sense of isolation and her yearning for connection. The imagery of "trigo y luna" (wheat and moon) adds a poetic touch, symbolizing fertility and dreams. As María moves through the tobacco fields, she absorbs the essence of her surroundings, which are imbued with a mystical quality, as suggested by the phrase "se bebe el sol que huele a duende" (she drinks the sun that smells of a goblin).

The spoken interlude adds another layer to the narrative, reminiscing about María's village, which smelled of summer, cicadas, and mountain flowers. This nostalgic reflection contrasts with María's current state, highlighting the innocence and simplicity of her past. The repetition of "María va" (María goes) throughout the song emphasizes her continuous journey, both physical and emotional. It underscores her resilience and determination to keep moving forward despite the adversities she faces. Mercedes Sosa, known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Latin American folk music, brings María's story to life with emotional depth and cultural richness.