Cuando mataron a Lorca

Rolando Alárcon's song "Cuando mataron a Lorca" is a poignant tribute to the Spanish poet and playwright Federico García Lorca, who was executed during the Spanish Civil War. The song delves into the profound impact of Lorca's death, not just on his contemporaries but on the cultural and artistic landscape of Spain. Alárcon uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the sense of loss and the enduring legacy of Lorca's work.

The lyrics begin by setting the scene of Lorca's death, highlighting the indifference and cruelty of the authorities, represented by the gendarme. This juxtaposition of Lorca's tragic fate with the mundane actions of those in power underscores the senselessness of his murder. The repetition of the phrase "porque a Lorca lo mataron" (because they killed Lorca) serves as a haunting reminder of the brutality he faced.

Alárcon also explores the reactions of different segments of society to Lorca's death. The song mentions a gypsy woman mourning Lorca, symbolizing the deep connection between Lorca and the marginalized communities he often wrote about. The reference to Don Quijote, a symbol of idealism and resistance, further emphasizes Lorca's enduring influence. The song suggests that while Lorca's physical presence is gone, his spirit and work continue to inspire and challenge the status quo.

The final verses of the song reflect on the immortality of Lorca's legacy. The imagery of nature, with the willow and elm trees, and the singing of the wheat grasses and thrushes, symbolizes the natural and eternal aspect of Lorca's influence. Alárcon asserts that Lorca's essence lives on, much like the legendary Don Quijote, in the hearts and minds of those who cherish his contributions to literature and culture.