Para Carla Moriana
Alfredo Zitarrosa
A Lullaby of Love and Longing: 'Para Carla Moriana' by Alfredo Zitarrosa
Alfredo Zitarrosa's 'Para Carla Moriana' is a tender and introspective song that delves into the themes of innocence, love, and the deep emotional connections between individuals. The song is structured as a lullaby, addressing a sleeping child named Carla Moriana. Through its gentle and poetic lyrics, Zitarrosa paints a vivid picture of a child's serene slumber and the profound thoughts it evokes in the observer.
The lyrics are filled with imagery that captures the innocence and purity of the child. Phrases like 'dulce niñita dormida' (sweet little girl asleep) and 'tu carita encendida' (your glowing little face) emphasize the child's vulnerability and the warmth she radiates. The song's narrator is deeply moved by the sight of Carla Moriana sleeping, wondering about her dreams and the people who might be influencing her life. This curiosity reflects a protective and almost parental concern, as the narrator wishes to be both her father and mother, to nurture and guide her.
Zitarrosa's use of metaphors, such as describing the child's hair as a 'torrente de miel' (torrent of honey) and her beauty as a 'suave edredón' (soft duvet), adds a layer of richness to the song. These metaphors not only highlight the child's physical attributes but also convey a sense of warmth and comfort. The song also touches on the theme of unspoken communication, with 'palabras sin voz' (words without voice) suggesting a deep, almost spiritual connection between the child and the observer. The narrator's longing to understand the child's dreams and thoughts underscores a desire for closeness and understanding.
'Para Carla Moriana' is a beautiful and poignant reflection on the innocence of childhood and the powerful emotions it can stir in those who observe it. Zitarrosa's lyrical craftsmanship and emotive delivery make this song a touching tribute to the purity and wonder of a child's world.