En El País de Nomeacuerdo
María Elena Walsh
The Whimsical World of Forgetfulness in 'En El País de Nomeacuerdo'
The song 'En El País de Nomeacuerdo' by María Elena Walsh transports listeners to a whimsical realm where memory is fleeting and every step is an adventure into the unknown. The lyrics describe a playful yet slightly unsettling journey through a land of forgetfulness, where the act of walking becomes a metaphor for the uncertainty and unpredictability of life. Each step taken is a step into the fog of memory, where the past is as elusive as the next step to be taken.
María Elena Walsh was an Argentine poet, musician, playwright, and novelist known for her children's literature. Her work often contains elements of fantasy and humor, and 'En El País de Nomeacuerdo' is no exception. The song's playful tone belies a deeper commentary on the human condition, particularly the fragility of memory and the fear of the unknown. The repetition of the phrase 'Doy tres pasitos y me pierdo' (I take three little steps and I get lost) emphasizes the ease with which one can become disoriented, both literally and metaphorically.
The song's charm lies in its ability to resonate with both children and adults. For children, it's a fun and imaginative tune about a make-believe land. For adults, it can be a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment before it slips into the abyss of forgetfulness. The fear expressed in the lyrics ('ay, qué miedo que me da') is a universal emotion that connects listeners to the song's deeper themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time.