Zamba Del Riego

Mercedes Sosa's 'Zamba Del Riego' is a poetic tribute to the life-giving force of water and the labor of those who work the land. The song opens with imagery of the 'duende del agua' (water spirit) carrying a flower, symbolizing the essential role of water in nurturing life and growth. This spirit awakens the 'voz vegetal del huarpe,' referring to the indigenous Huarpe people and their deep connection to the land. The 'paz mineral' suggests a dormant, ancient peace that is revitalized by the flow of water.

The lyrics then shift to the struggles of the laborers in the valley, who endure the harsh conditions from dawn to dusk. The 'pena del surco ajeno' (sorrow of the foreign furrow) highlights the toil and hardship of working on land that may not even be their own. The 'sombra del vendimiador' (shadow of the grape harvester) emphasizes the relentless nature of their work, moving from 'sol a sol' (sun to sun), a phrase that underscores the grueling, endless cycle of labor.

In the chorus, the 'zamba del riego' (irrigation zamba) becomes a song of the water itself, celebrating the harvest and the communal effort of the people. The 'rumor de acequia y canción' (murmur of the irrigation ditch and song) paints a vivid picture of the agrarian landscape, where water and song intertwine. The 'canal fundador' (founding canal) and 'tonada del totoral' (melody of the reed bed) evoke the historical and cultural significance of irrigation in sustaining the community. The song concludes with a hopeful vision of the 'solar regador' (sunny irrigator) bringing new life and songs of love and peace, symbolizing a harmonious future where the fruits of labor are shared and celebrated.