Canción de cuna para Emiliana y el Che

Ángel Parra's song "Canción de cuna para Emiliana y el Che" is a poignant lullaby that intertwines the themes of comfort, legacy, and revolutionary spirit. The song is addressed to Emiliana, presumably a child, and serves as both a soothing bedtime story and a tribute to the iconic revolutionary figure, Che Guevara. Parra, a prominent figure in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement, uses this song to convey the enduring impact of Guevara's ideals and actions.

The lyrics begin with a gentle reassurance to Emiliana, urging her to sleep without fear. This sets a tender and protective tone, which is then juxtaposed with the powerful narrative of Che Guevara's legacy. Parra recounts the story of Guevara, emphasizing that despite attempts to kill him, his spirit and influence remain undiminished. The imagery of Guevara's gaze shining eternally and his essence being as vital as air underscores the idea that his revolutionary spirit is immortal and omnipresent.

Parra further elevates Guevara to a mythical status, describing him as a condor soaring between mountains and sea, symbolizing freedom and resilience. The song also highlights Guevara's relentless pursuit of justice, suggesting that his work continues wherever there is injustice. The final verses bring a personal touch, with Parra offering to sing an old, forgotten song that Guevara once sang, creating a sense of continuity and connection between past and present struggles for justice. Through this lullaby, Parra not only comforts Emiliana but also instills in her the enduring values of courage, justice, and the revolutionary spirit embodied by Che Guevara.