Selva Sola

Mercedes Sosa's 'Selva Sola' is a poetic homage to the natural beauty and mystique of the Paraná River and its surrounding jungle. The song's lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and metaphors that evoke the lush, vibrant environment of the region. Sosa, known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Latin American folk music, uses her artistry to paint a picture of a place where nature and music intertwine seamlessly.

The song opens with a serene depiction of the jungle, with the 'luna verde' (green moon) casting its glow over the water, and shadows navigating the Paraná River. This imagery sets a tranquil yet mysterious tone, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the natural world. The mention of the singer's song being carried away by the river's silence, only to be broken by the rain, suggests a deep connection between the artist and the environment, where her music becomes one with the natural sounds.

Throughout the song, Sosa personifies elements of nature, such as the 'pollera enamorada' (enamored skirt) and the 'ardiente pájaro del sol' (fiery bird of the sun), to convey a sense of life and passion within the jungle. The recurring theme of the river's music and its liberating effect on the singer's soul highlights the profound impact of nature on human emotion and creativity. The song's closing lines, asking to be kept with the river's music, encapsulate a longing to remain forever intertwined with the natural world's beauty and mystery.

' Selva Sola' is not just a song but a celebration of the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. It reflects Sosa's deep appreciation for her cultural roots and the environment that inspires her music, making it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has felt the profound influence of nature on their soul.