Casamiento de Los Negros

The song 'Casamiento de Los Negros' by Violeta Parra is a poignant piece that delves into themes of race, culture, and the inescapable presence of darkness in the lives of the characters it portrays. Violeta Parra, a renowned Chilean composer, songwriter, folklorist, ethnomusicologist, and visual artist, was known for her commitment to the Chilean identity and her work in reviving and preserving the country's folkloric music. Her songs often contain deep social commentary and reflect the struggles of the marginalized.

In 'Casamiento de Los Negros,' Parra uses the color black as a central motif to describe a wedding and the subsequent life events of a couple. The repetition of the color in various elements of the wedding, the environment, and even in the remedies provided by the doctor, suggests a metaphor for the African heritage of the characters and possibly the social and economic hardships associated with it. The song's somber tone is further emphasized by the mention of the negrita's death and the bleakness of her funeral, highlighting the theme of sorrow and the relentless hardships faced by the couple.

The narrative style of the song, along with its use of color symbolism, paints a vivid picture of the couple's life, enveloped in a metaphorical darkness that could represent discrimination, poverty, or the weight of cultural identity. Parra's work often challenged the status quo and brought attention to the plight of the underprivileged, and 'Casamiento de Los Negros' is a testament to her artistic legacy and her dedication to social justice.