Nodriza translates to 'nursemaid' or 'wet nurse'. It's a beautiful and somewhat rare word, especially in song lyrics, that evokes a sense of deep care, comfort, and maternal tenderness.
In the song, Alfonsina, seemingly at the end of her life, asks, "Déjame que duerma nodriza, en paz" (Let me sleep, nursemaid, in peace). This poignant line uses 'nodriza' to address a comforting, nurturing figure, perhaps even personifying the sea itself as a gentle caregiver taking her to eternal rest. It's a powerful and unique choice that adds profound emotional depth to the narrative.
This beautiful and sad song tells the story of a woman named Alfonsina who walks into the sea, never to return. The narrator follows her path, seeing her "pequeña huella" (small footprint) on the sand leading to the deep water. The song wonders about the secret pain she carried, asking, "Sabe Dios qué angustia te acompañó / Qué dolores viejos calló tu voz" (God knows what anguish accompanied you / What old pains your voice silenced).
Instead of a violent end, the song imagines a peaceful, magical journey. Alfonsina is "arrullada en el canto / De las caracolas marinas" (lulled by the song of the sea shells). The lyrics create an underwater fantasy world where "Cinco sirenitas te llevarán" (Five little mermaids will carry you) through paths of coral. The song even includes what might be her last words, telling her nurse to let her sleep and if a certain man calls, to just say, "que Alfonsina no vuelve" (that Alfonsina isn't coming back). It's a tragic farewell, reframed as a poetic escape where she becomes "vestida de mar" (dressed in the sea).
Natalia Lafourcade is a celebrated Mexican singer-songwriter and musician born in Mexico City in 1984. Known for her lyrical soprano voice, she masterfully blends genres such as pop rock, Latin folk, bossa nova, and jazz. Since her 2002 debut, Natalia has become one of Latin America's most influential artists, earning 18 Latin Grammy Awards and four Grammy Awards among other honors.
Raised in the artistic town of Coatepec, Veracruz, Natalia was surrounded by music from an early age, inspired by both Mexican legends and international icons like Fiona Apple and Björk. Her rich discography showcases heartfelt songwriting and innovative production, with notable albums including Mujer Divina, a tribute to Agustín Lara, and Hasta la Raíz, which garnered critical acclaim for its emotional depth and musical sophistication.