El zorro y la llama
Trémolo
The Fox and the Flame: A Tale of Deception and Consequence
Trémolo's song "El zorro y la llama" is a vivid narrative that intertwines elements of folklore, betrayal, and justice. The lyrics tell the story of a fox who receives an invitation from a llama to attend a grand gathering in the village. The fox, intrigued by the promise of a feast, decides to join the celebration. The imagery of the night, filled with llamas and vicuñas, sets a festive scene that quickly turns dark.
As the night progresses, the fox, in a state of drunkenness, betrays the llama. The phrase "Santa Pachamama"—a reference to the Andean earth goddess—adds a layer of cultural depth, suggesting that the fox's actions are not just a personal betrayal but a violation of sacred trust. The fox's escape to the puna (high Andean plains) after committing the act indicates a desperate attempt to evade the consequences of his actions.
The song takes a grim turn as the fox is condemned to life imprisonment, with a bounty placed on his head, dead or alive. The village mourns the loss, and in a public assembly, the fox is sentenced. The repetition of "Santa Pachamama" throughout the song underscores the gravity of the fox's betrayal and the ensuing divine retribution. Trémolo uses this tale to explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the inevitable consequences of one's actions, all set against a backdrop of rich cultural references and vivid storytelling.