Primera estrella de la tarde
Fernando Delgadillo
A Celestial Promise: The Return of Quetzalcoatl
Fernando Delgadillo's song "Primera estrella de la tarde" is a poetic and profound exploration of loss, memory, and the promise of return. The lyrics weave a narrative that reflects on the passage of time and the fading of memories, symbolized by the stars that people once counted but have since forgotten. The song speaks to the enduring impact of a significant figure whose presence and wisdom were deeply felt, but who has since departed, leaving a void that is keenly felt by those left behind.
The song's central metaphor revolves around the promise of return with the first evening star, a celestial symbol of hope and continuity. This promise is tied to the figure of Quetzalcoatl, a deity in Mesoamerican culture often associated with wisdom, knowledge, and the morning star. Delgadillo's lyrics evoke a sense of longing and anticipation for the return of this wise figure, who promised to come back and bring enlightenment to a world that has since fallen into darkness and ignorance.
The imagery of the song is rich with references to nature and the cosmos, painting a vivid picture of a world that has lost its way without the guiding light of its revered figure. The mention of the "sabia serpiente de preciosas plumas de quetzal" (wise serpent with precious quetzal feathers) directly alludes to Quetzalcoatl, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual significance of this figure. The song ultimately calls for a renewal of knowledge and enlightenment, urging the return of wisdom to a world in need of guidance and light.