Romance de La Luna Tucumana

Mercedes Sosa's 'Romance de La Luna Tucumana' is a poetic and evocative song that captures the mystical beauty of the night in the Tucumán region of Argentina. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the natural landscape, blending elements of folklore and the ethereal presence of the moon. The song opens with the imagery of winter's dagger, symbolizing the harshness of the season, and the evening dying in the fields. This sets a somber yet enchanting tone, as the moon emerges to offer solace with its 'tambor de desvelos'—a metaphor for the moon's rhythmic, comforting presence in the night sky.

The song continues to weave a tapestry of nocturnal sounds and sights, with references to the 'arpas del aire' (harps of the air) and violins born from the poplar trees in the valley. These metaphors suggest a symphony of nature, where the night itself becomes a stage for a celestial performance. The 'Zamba de la Luna llena' (Full Moon Zamba) is a dance that the night performs in the streets, characterized by a handkerchief of corners and a gesture of saudades—a Portuguese term that conveys a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing.

As the song progresses, the imagery of the night deepens with descriptions of grey mists enveloping the green sugarcane fields and the paths adorned with orange blossoms. The moon's tambourine hangs its song in the air, filling the night with arpeggios and melodies. The final verses bring a personal touch, with the singer's heart clapping along with the rhythm of their blood, while the tired moon rests over the valleys. This closing imagery ties the natural and emotional elements together, creating a sense of unity between the landscape and the human experience.

'Romance de La Luna Tucumana' is a celebration of the night, nature, and the deep emotional connections that bind us to our surroundings. Mercedes Sosa's powerful voice and the lyrical beauty of the song invite listeners to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of the Tucumán night, where every element of nature plays a part in a grand, nocturnal symphony.