La Merienda

The song 'La Merienda' by Cri-Cri, also known as Francisco Gabilondo Soler, is a playful and humorous take on the whims of a child during snack time. Cri-Cri, often referred to as the 'grillito cantor' (singing cricket), is a beloved figure in Latin American children's music, known for his storytelling and ability to capture the innocence and imagination of childhood through his songs.

In 'La Merienda,' the lyrics describe a child who is never satisfied with the temperature or quality of the milk provided for his afternoon snack. The repetition of the child's complaints with each verse highlights the often capricious and fickle nature of children's preferences. The song uses a simple narrative structure to depict a common domestic scene, where the child's fussiness becomes an endless cycle, much to the exasperation of the mother and the maid, María. The child's refrain of 'Ay, mamá' followed by a new grievance each time adds a comedic element to the song, as the demands become increasingly absurd.

The song not only entertains but also reflects on the patience required in parenting and the challenges of catering to the ever-changing whims of children. It's a light-hearted reminder of the innocence of childhood, where small matters like the temperature of milk can seem like the biggest issues in the world. 'La Merienda' resonates with listeners of all ages, as it humorously captures a universal aspect of growing up and the loving, yet sometimes trying, relationship between parents and their children.