Tarde de lluvia

Francisco Gabilondo Soler, known as Cri Cri, is a beloved Mexican composer and performer of children's music. His song "Tarde de lluvia" ("Rainy Afternoon") paints a vivid picture of a rainy day in the countryside, where various animals react to the weather in their unique ways. The song is rich in imagery and personification, making it a delightful narrative for children and adults alike.

The song begins by describing the aftermath of a rainstorm, with the countryside left green and fragrant. However, the flowers are depicted as wearing capes to avoid getting wet, a charming metaphor that brings the natural world to life. The narrative then introduces a series of animals, each with their own response to the rain. The rabbit emerges from its burrow wearing a raincoat, and a squirrel descends from a tree with a little umbrella, showcasing their preparedness and adaptability.

The song also highlights the playful nature of ducklings, who go to school with a leaky umbrella, enjoying the puddles they create along the way. This playful imagery contrasts with the somber mood inside the house, where the rain has made everything dark, cold, and dreary. The cat, however, finds comfort by the warm brazier, showing a different way of coping with the rain. The song concludes with a humorous note, as the teacher scolds the wet ducklings, emphasizing the different perspectives and behaviors of the animals in response to the rain.

Cri Cri's "Tarde de lluvia" is a charming and whimsical exploration of a rainy day, using personification and vivid imagery to create a world where animals behave like humans. The song captures the essence of childhood wonder and the simple joys found in nature, making it a timeless piece in children's music.