Canço de Na Ruixa Mantells

Maria del Mar Bonet's song "Canço de Na Ruixa Mantells" is a poignant and haunting narrative that delves into themes of loss, madness, and the eternal bond between love and the sea. The lyrics tell the story of a woman, referred to as the 'boja del Camp de Marina' (the madwoman of the Marina Field), who wanders the shores, driven to madness by the loss of her beloved to the sea. Her sorrow is palpable as she roams barefoot and in tattered clothes, her beauty still evident despite her wild state.

The imagery in the song is rich and evocative, with references to the deep sea, sea lilies, and shells that she uses to adorn herself. These elements symbolize her connection to the ocean, which has become both her sanctuary and her tormentor. The sea, personified as a relentless force, took her love during a fierce storm, leaving her with nothing but memories and a deep, abiding sorrow. Her song, described as 'estranya cançó' (strange song), reflects her inner turmoil and the haunting presence of her lost love.

The narrative reaches its tragic conclusion as the woman's body is found on a solitary beach, her madness and sorrow finally coming to an end. The absence of a traditional grave marker, replaced by sea lilies each summer, and the fleeting presence of a bird's light footprint, underscore the ephemeral nature of life and the enduring impact of her story. Maria del Mar Bonet's poignant delivery and the lyrical depth of "Canço de Na Ruixa Mantells" create a timeless tale of love, loss, and the inexorable pull of the sea.