What War is the Song Fernando about?
The title of ABBA's iconic song 'Fernando' has often been shrouded in mystery, especially regarding the historical context or war it might reference. Many fans and critics have debated the exact war or event the lyrics allude to. However, the song's author, Bj?rn Ulvaeus, has provided a clue in an interview, suggesting that the song is about a battle involving Texas and Mexico. Let's delve deeper into the possibilities and evidence.
Historical Context and Clues
Historical Context: Wikipedia offers valuable information on the song's origin and the potential historical context. The song's original lyrics in Swedish and Spanish are believed to be about a lost love, but the English version has a different tale. Bj?rn Ulvaeus, one of the songwriters, has mentioned that the English lyrics are a vision for two veterans reminiscing about a past battle. This suggests that the song might be inspired by a specific historical event involving Texas and Mexico.
Clues in the Lyrics: Two significant clues present in the song are the mention of 'cannons' and references to the 'Rio Grande river.' These elements point to a battle that took place in this region. One of the most plausible explanations is the Battle of Val Verde, which occurred on February 20-21, 1862, near the town of Val Verde. This battle took place during the American Civil War, with a Union force of New Mexico volunteers engaging Confederate forces.
Further Analysis
According to historical records, the Battle of Val Verde was a significant engagement during the American Civil War. This clash took place in Union-held territory, New Mexico, at a ford along the Rio Grande. This location, combined with the mention of cannons, aligns with the setting described in the lyrics. While the song might not be a direct portrayal of this specific battle, the themes of veterans reminiscing about past conflicts and a sudden realization during a peaceful night (as mentioned in Bj?rn Ulvaeus's accounts) suggest a similar setting.
Conclusion
While the exact war depicted in 'Fernando' remains a subject of interpretation, the clues provided by the lyrics and historical context point towards a battle involving Texas and Mexico. The Battle of Val Verde, specifically, is a compelling match due to the mention of the Rio Grande river, which forms part of the border between Texas and Mexico.
The song 'Fernando' has become a timeless classic, and understanding its possible historical context only adds to its rich lore. Whether the song is directly inspired by the Battle of Val Verde or a metaphorical representation of a similar historical event, it remains a tribute to the themes of conflict, remembrance, and lost battles.
For further reading, you might also explore other works by ABBA or delve into the history of the American Civil War to gain a deeper appreciation for the possible inspiration behind the song.