Postal de Guerra

María Elena Walsh's 'Postal de Guerra' is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the devastation and sorrow brought about by war. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a war-torn landscape, filled with remnants of destruction and the pervasive sense of loss. The imagery of 'un papel de seda' floating in the smoke and 'la ceniza llueve' raining down silently evokes a scene of desolation and despair. These metaphors highlight the fragility of life and the overwhelming impact of conflict on both the environment and the human spirit.

The recurring motif of 'lágrimas' (tears) throughout the song underscores the deep emotional pain experienced by those affected by war. The lines 'Ay! Cuándo volverán / La flor a la rama / Y el olor al pan' express a longing for the return of normalcy and peace. The flower on the branch and the smell of bread symbolize life, growth, and sustenance, elements that have been stripped away by the ravages of war. This yearning for a return to simpler, peaceful times is a powerful reminder of what is lost in the chaos of conflict.

Walsh's use of ghostly and fragmented imagery, such as 'fantasmales pasos' and 'un montón de madres,' further emphasizes the haunting aftermath of war. The song not only mourns the physical destruction but also the psychological and emotional toll on individuals and communities. The 'árboles quemados' and 'pálidos harapos' serve as stark reminders of the lives and dreams shattered by violence. Through 'Postal de Guerra,' María Elena Walsh delivers a poignant and timeless message about the enduring scars of war and the universal desire for peace and healing.