El Zenzontle Pregunta Por Arlen

The song "El Zenzontle Pregunta Por Arlen" by Eladia Blázquez is a poignant tribute to Arlen Siu, a young Nicaraguan revolutionary and martyr. The lyrics are structured as a conversation between two birds, the guardabarranco (Nicaragua's national bird) and the zenzontle (mockingbird), which symbolize freedom and the spread of messages. The guardabarranco inquires about Arlen, indicating her importance and the impact she had on those who remember her.

The zenzontle responds by describing Arlen as a 'sweet star in the sugarcane field' and a 'multicolored arrow' among the whispers of the grassland. These metaphors highlight her vibrant spirit and the stealth with which she moved through the revolution. The song also mentions that she 'buried the clean star of her heart in the hollow of her guitar,' suggesting that Arlen's ideals and love for her country were deeply embedded in her music and poetry. The reference to her going 'upriver to the savannah' likens her to a serene water lily, emphasizing her purity and dedication to the cause.

The chorus speaks of the clandestine nature of the revolution, with a butterfly representing Arlen and a hummingbird as her guardian. This imagery conveys the delicate yet powerful influence of Arlen's actions and the protective spirit of the revolution. The song serves as a metaphorical representation of Arlen's legacy, painting her as an enduring symbol of the struggle for freedom and justice in Nicaragua.