María Coraje

The song "María Coraje" by Victor Manuel paints a vivid portrait of a woman whose life has been marked by both profound hardship and enduring strength. The lyrics detail the life of María, a woman who has lived over a century, with her physical appearance described evocatively with 'snow-white hair' and 'black wooden earrings.' The song delves deep into her experiences, highlighting her role as a mother to fifteen children, her losses during the war, and the tragic death of her miner son, encapsulating the harsh realities faced by many during tumultuous times.

María's character is portrayed as one of immense resilience and stoicism. Despite the numerous tragedies she faces, including the loss of her children to war and accidents, she continues to carry on with her life, a testament to her unyielding spirit. The imagery of her climbing the path to the black pit where her son died, and her reaction of spitting on the ground, symbolizes her contempt and profound grief yet also her strength in facing such a painful place.

The song also touches on moments of tenderness and personal triumph amidst the sorrow. María's memories of her first kiss, the baptism of her first grandchild, and her wedding night are interspersed with the narrative of loss, suggesting a balance between joy and pain in her life. These glimpses into her personal moments provide a deeper understanding of her as a multifaceted individual, enduring through decades with both love and courage.