El Palo Verde / El Son de Los Aguacates (pot-pourri)

Valentín Elizalde's 'El Palo Verde / El Son de Los Aguacates' is a vibrant pot-pourri that blends themes of nature and festivity, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Mexican music. The song begins with a metaphorical reference to a drying 'palo verde' tree, which the singer claims to have watered, leading it to bloom. This imagery could symbolize nurturing and revitalization, suggesting a deeper message about caring for one's environment or perhaps relationships, where attention and care can bring new life and joy.

The lyrics also weave in elements of fear and protection, as seen in the lines about the 'chivo' (goat) that fears the 'coyote' and the 'hijo de la guayaba' (son of the guava). These characters could be metaphors for the natural challenges or fears that one faces in life, emphasizing the need for vigilance and care in personal or community matters. The repeated call for the subject to prove themselves 'on the road' adds a layer of challenge or a rite of passage, common themes in folk narratives.

The latter part of the song shifts to a more celebratory tone, focusing on the 'son de los aguacates' and the festive atmosphere in the 'cantina verde'. The mention of gathering 'tostones' (coins) for bands to play rancheras at the singer's funeral celebrates the joy of life and music, even in the face of death. This festive resilience is a hallmark of Mexican cultural expressions, where music and community remain central to life's significant moments.