Niña Virgen Maria

Real de Catorce's 'Niña Virgen Maria' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of innocence, loss, and transcendence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young girl, Maria, who is on the brink of leaving this world. The imagery of an 'angel de madera' (wooden angel) at her bedside and the 'mundo viejo' (old world) passing on a 'nuevo mal' (new evil) suggests a transition from innocence to a harsh reality. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the loss of purity and the inevitable encounter with the world's suffering and corruption.

The narrator's desire to 'besar la leche de tus manos' (kiss the milk of your hands) before death takes Maria signifies a deep yearning to hold onto her innocence and purity. The act of hiding her heart in his hands symbolizes a protective gesture, as if trying to shield her essence from the impending darkness. The repeated calls to Maria to 'grita por mi nombre' (shout my name) and 'grita al amor de los encuentros' (shout to the love of encounters) emphasize the importance of love and connection, even in the face of death.

The song also touches on the theme of legacy and remembrance. The 'viejo ángel sin jubilar' (old angel without retirement) who wants to guard Maria's place represents a timeless guardian, perhaps a symbol of enduring love and protection. The imagery of Maria leaving on a 'tren de luz' (train of light) and the earth falling silent as God gifts her a swallow suggests a peaceful transcendence to a higher plane. The final verses encourage Maria to sing her songs and proclaim her love for peace, even as she faces the end, highlighting the enduring power of love and the human spirit.