Asturias

Ana Belén's song 'Asturias' is a poignant tribute to the region of Asturias in northern Spain, known for its lush green mountains and rich mineral resources. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the land's natural beauty and its historical significance. The opening lines express a deep yearning to sing about Asturias, highlighting its verdant landscapes and mineral wealth. This sets the stage for a narrative that intertwines personal and collective struggles.

The song's narrator identifies as a man from the south, contrasting his own harsh environment of dust, sun, fatigue, and hunger with the lushness of Asturias. This juxtaposition underscores a shared experience of hardship and a longing for better horizons. The imagery of 'ríos sólidos de sangre' (solid rivers of blood) and an 'asfixiado' (suffocated) heart conveys a sense of deep-seated suffering and resilience. The narrator's eyes are described as blind from looking at Asturias, symbolizing a profound connection and a sense of loss or longing.

Asturias is personified as a sibling, 'hija de mi misma madre' (daughter of my same mother), emphasizing a familial bond and shared heritage. The song references historical moments when Asturias had to fight for its survival, portraying it as a resilient and unyielding entity. The metaphor of a tree without branches, yet firmly rooted, symbolizes the enduring spirit of Asturias and its people. The call to 'obreros del mundo' (workers of the world) to witness this resilience speaks to a broader message of solidarity and collective struggle. The song culminates in a powerful call to action, urging Asturias to prepare for its final leap, a metaphor for an ultimate struggle against oppression. The repeated refrain of 'hija de mi misma madre' reinforces the deep emotional and cultural ties that bind the narrator to Asturias, making the song a moving ode to resilience and solidarity.