Las naranjas

Rolando Alárcon's song 'Las naranjas' is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the bittersweet nature of human emotions. The song, originally learned by Violeta Parra from Elena Saavedra, is performed with a guitar tuned in a unique way, which adds a distinct tonal quality to the piece. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references that paint a vivid picture of the complexities of love and desire.

The recurring imagery of oranges and lemons serves as a metaphor for the different stages and experiences of love. The 'naranja ma'úra' (ripe orange) and 'limón por el suelo' (lemon on the ground) symbolize the abundance and waste of potential love and opportunities. The contrast between the ripe oranges and green lemons further emphasizes the idea of unfulfilled potential and the fleeting nature of youth and beauty. The lines 'tanta niña tan bonita, tantos jóvenes solteros' (so many beautiful girls, so many single young men) highlight the paradox of having so many possibilities for love, yet still feeling unfulfilled.

The song also delves into the theme of unrequited love and the loss of hope. The verse 'A la mar fui por naranjas, cosa que la mar no tiene' (I went to the sea for oranges, something the sea does not have) illustrates the futility of seeking something unattainable. The act of reaching into the water and maintaining hope despite the impossibility of the task reflects the human tendency to hold on to dreams and desires, even when they seem out of reach. The final lines, 'El amor me tiene loco, perdí'o y sin esperanzas' (Love has me crazy, lost and without hope), encapsulate the despair and madness that often accompany unfulfilled love.

'Las naranjas' is a beautifully crafted song that uses simple yet powerful imagery to convey the complexities of love and longing. Through its metaphors and cultural references, it speaks to the universal human experience of seeking connection and the heartache that can come with it.