Mary, Mariana
La Sonora Santanera
A Dance of Enchantment: The Allure of 'Mary, Mariana'
La Sonora Santanera's song 'Mary, Mariana' is a vibrant and romantic ode to a captivating woman named Mariana. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her enchanting beauty, describing her 'brujos' (bewitching) eyes, 'canela' (cinnamon) skin, and 'risa loca' (crazy laughter). These elements combine to create an image of a woman who is both mesmerizing and full of life, evoking deep sighs and admiration from the singer. The song's sensuality is further emphasized by the description of her 'pelo negro' (black hair) that kisses her back and her 'talle esbelto' (slender waist), which takes the singer's breath away as she passes by.
The chorus of the song brings the listener into a dreamlike state where the singer imagines dancing with Mariana at a festive cumbia. The rhythm of the cumbia, a traditional Colombian dance, adds a layer of cultural richness to the song, highlighting the sensual and joyful nature of the dance. The singer's mind is transported to a place of pure bliss as he envisions Mariana's waist swaying gently, leading his thoughts to soar. This imagery not only captures the physical allure of Mariana but also the emotional and mental escape she provides.
The repeated plea of 'Mary, mary, mary, mariana' in the chorus underscores the singer's deep longing and desire. He implores her not to look at him in a certain way because her gaze communicates emotions that words cannot express. Her smile awakens a dormant storm of happiness within him, suggesting that her presence brings immense joy and revitalization to his life. The song concludes with a heartfelt invitation for Mariana to dance with him, to bring him the joy of being hers and to hold him in her arms for an eternity. This romantic and passionate plea encapsulates the essence of the song, celebrating the transformative power of love and the magic of a shared dance.