Arbolé, Arbolé

Marta Gómez's song 'Arbolé, Arbolé' is a poetic and evocative piece that draws heavily on Spanish cultural imagery and metaphors. The song opens with the repeated phrase 'Arbolé arbolé, Seco y verdé,' which translates to 'Tree, tree, dry and green.' This juxtaposition of dryness and greenness could symbolize the duality of life, encompassing both vitality and desolation. The tree stands as a silent witness to the unfolding events, much like the girl who remains unmoved by the various suitors who pass by.

The central figure in the song is 'la niña del bello rostro,' or 'the girl with the beautiful face,' who is picking olives. This act of olive picking is deeply rooted in Spanish culture, symbolizing labor, tradition, and perhaps a connection to the land. The wind, described as a 'galán de torres' or 'gallant of towers,' wraps around her waist, adding a touch of romanticism and mystique. Despite the allure of the wind and the various suitors—four horsemen, three bullfighters, and a young man with flowers—the girl remains focused on her task, ignoring their calls to join them in Córdoba, Sevilla, and Granada.

The suitors, each representing different aspects of Spanish culture and cities known for their rich histories and traditions, try to entice the girl away from her work. However, her indifference to their advances suggests a deeper message about staying true to oneself and one's roots. The repeated imagery of the wind around her waist and her unwavering focus on picking olives highlights her resilience and determination. Marta Gómez's rendition of this poem, originally by Federico García Lorca, captures the essence of Spanish folklore and the timeless struggle between duty and desire.