Río Manzanares

Ángel Parra's song 'Río Manzanares' is a poignant exploration of love, duty, and the inevitability of loss. The song's narrative revolves around the protagonist's plea to the Manzanares River, asking it to let him pass because his sick mother has called for him. This initial request sets the stage for a deeper emotional journey, where the river becomes a metaphor for the obstacles and currents of life that one must navigate.

The repeated invocation of the Manzanares River, with its currents flowing in different directions, symbolizes the conflicting emotions and choices the protagonist faces. On one hand, he expresses a willingness to sacrifice his life for a beautiful woman, indicating a deep, perhaps reckless, passion. On the other hand, the mention of his mother as the 'only star' that lights his future underscores a profound sense of duty and familial love. This duality highlights the tension between personal desires and responsibilities, a common theme in many traditional and folk songs.

The song's final lines bring a sense of resolution and acceptance. The protagonist acknowledges that if his mother were to die, he would follow her to heaven, emphasizing the depth of his bond with her. This sentiment reflects a cultural reverence for maternal figures and the idea that family ties transcend even death. Ángel Parra, known for his contributions to Chilean folk music and his ability to weave personal and political narratives, uses 'Río Manzanares' to create a touching and relatable story that resonates with universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of family.