La Tempranera

The song "La Tempranera" by Mercedes Sosa, a revered Argentine folk singer known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Latin American folklore, is a poignant reflection on youthful love and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of a young girl, described as the 'early riser' or 'the first one,' akin to the first bloom of a flower at dawn. The girl is characterized by her natural beauty, with a gentle face and warm, sincere eyes, embodying the freshness and promise of youth. The setting is likely in Tucumán, a province in Argentina, as indicated by the reference to the 'tucumana' girl and the town of Monteros.

The narrator recalls dancing a zamba, a traditional Argentine dance, with the girl and falling deeply in love. This dance and the emotions it evoked are central to the memory, symbolizing a moment of pure connection and affection. However, the song takes a turn towards melancholy as the narrator laments the loss of this delicate, adolescent love. The springtime, often associated with new beginnings and love, is instead the backdrop for a sorrowful remembrance of what was once a bright and promising relationship. The use of the word 'elegy' in the final line underscores the mournful tone, as an elegy is a poem or song composed in honor of someone deceased or something lost.

"La Tempranera" is not just a love song; it's a lament for the fleeting nature of first love and the innocence of youth. It's a universal theme that resonates with many who have experienced the bittersweet nature of growing up and leaving behind the simplicity of early affections. Mercedes Sosa's emotive delivery of the song adds depth to the narrative, making it a touching tribute to the memories of a past love.