Ruego

Isabel Parra's song "Ruego" is a poignant and emotional plea to the Virgin Mary, seeking solace and comfort amidst the trials and tribulations of life. The lyrics are steeped in religious imagery and metaphors, reflecting a deep sense of loss and yearning. Parra addresses the Virgin Mary as the "mother celestial" and "Virgen del consuelo," invoking her as a source of comfort and divine intervention. This invocation is a common theme in Latin American culture, where the Virgin Mary is often seen as a maternal figure who provides solace in times of distress.

The song's narrative unfolds through a series of vivid and heart-wrenching images. Parra speaks of wandering through many lands, driven by the sole desire to dry her tears with the Virgin's apron. This metaphor of seeking comfort in the Virgin's apron highlights the deep emotional pain and the longing for maternal care and protection. The imagery of planting a furrow of love only to have its fruit lost to strong winds further emphasizes the theme of loss and the futility of her efforts.

The lyrics also touch on the physical and emotional toll of her suffering. Parra's feet may not bleed, but her eyes do from crying so much, illustrating the depth of her sorrow. The mention of caring for a little dove without parents, only to have it fly away, symbolizes the loss of something precious and the hope for its return. The repeated plea to the Virgin Mary to guard her dove underscores the desperation and the hope for divine intervention to bring back what has been lost.

"Ruego" is a deeply moving song that captures the essence of human suffering, loss, and the search for comfort and hope. Through its rich metaphors and religious imagery, it resonates with anyone who has experienced profound sorrow and sought solace in a higher power.