Tres Árboles

Ángel Parra's song 'Tres Árboles' is a poignant reflection on abandonment, nature, and the passage of time. The lyrics tell the story of three fallen trees left by a woodcutter at the edge of a path. These trees, forgotten and neglected, are personified as they 'converse' and 'embrace' each other in their shared sorrow, much like three blind individuals finding solace in one another's company. This imagery evokes a deep sense of empathy and highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings, even in their suffering.

The song's vivid descriptions, such as the setting sun casting its 'living blood' on the split logs and the winds carrying away their fragrance, add a layer of melancholy beauty to the scene. The trees' wounds are likened to eyes filled with pleading, emphasizing their silent cry for attention and care. This metaphor not only underscores the physical damage inflicted upon the trees but also symbolizes the emotional and spiritual wounds that come from being forgotten and left to decay.

As the night approaches, the narrator expresses a desire to join the trees in their quiet vigil, to absorb their 'gentle resins' into his heart, and to share in their mute sorrow. This act of solidarity and empathy suggests a profound connection between humans and nature, where the pain of one is felt by the other. The final image of the day finding them 'mute and tight' in a heap of mourning encapsulates the song's themes of loss, unity, and the enduring impact of neglect. Through 'Tres Árboles,' Parra invites listeners to reflect on the consequences of our actions on the natural world and the importance of remembering and caring for all forms of life.