La mazamorra

The song 'La mazamorra' by Rolando Alárcon is a playful and rhythmic piece that delves into the simplicity and repetitiveness of rural life. The lyrics revolve around the mazamorra, a traditional South American dish made from maize, which is a staple in the diet of many rural communities. The song's repetitive structure, with the chorus of 'Mazamorrita con tres patitas' (little mazamorra with three legs), reflects the daily routine and the importance of this simple dish in the lives of the people. The mention of eating mazamorra at different times of the day underscores its centrality to their sustenance.

The second verse introduces a bit of a narrative, telling a brief story of stealing a bull, slaughtering it, consuming the meat, and using the hide for travel. This verse may symbolize the resourcefulness and self-sufficiency of rural inhabitants, who make use of every part of an animal. The playful tone of the song, combined with the mention of a somewhat serious act of theft, suggests a lighthearted approach to the struggles of rural life.

The final verse adds a touch of whimsy, with the mazamorra personified and expressing a desire to share a mate (a traditional South American caffeine-rich infused drink) with a soldier or to drink it while barefoot. This could be interpreted as a nod to the desires for companionship and the simple pleasures that punctuate the monotony of everyday life. Overall, 'La mazamorra' by Rolando Alárcon is a celebration of rural culture, its food, and the small joys that make up the fabric of daily existence in these communities.