La Vaca Mariposa

The song 'La Vaca Mariposa' performed by Simón Díaz is a tender and picturesque portrayal of rural life, encapsulating the beauty and simplicity of nature through the story of a cow named Mariposa and her newborn calf. Simón Díaz, a celebrated Venezuelan musician and composer, was known for his work in the genre of música llanera, which is traditional music from the plains (llanos) of Venezuela and Colombia. His songs often reflect the culture, landscapes, and daily life of the region.

The lyrics describe the birth of a beautiful calf that is as lovely as a baby, and the joy and wonder it brings to the children who wish to see it. However, Mariposa, the mother cow, hides her calf in the mogotes, which are typically limestone hillocks found in the plains. This act of hiding the calf suggests a protective instinct, possibly hinting at the harsh realities of life in the wild where predators are a constant threat. The song also paints a vivid picture of the savannah coming to life with the birth of the calf, with streams bringing flowers and the local wildlife, including parrots and hawks, bringing fruits as if to celebrate the new life.

The repeated line 'La vaca Mariposa tuvo un terné' (Mariposa the cow had a calf) serves as a refrain that emphasizes the cycle of life and the natural beauty of birth. The song's gentle melody and pastoral lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to the land. It's a celebration of life, nature, and the innocence of childhood, as well as a subtle reminder of the vulnerability of life in the natural world.