☝️ Key Points
- The song tells a romantic story of a gaucho (South American cowboy) sitting by a nighttime well and singing for his girl (Niña).
- The recurring refrain 'The moon keeps its watch' symbolizes the constant presence and protection of the moon, representing the gaucho's constant love.
- The golden star that seems to wave to the girl in the refrain is a symbol of happiness or hope that the protagonist feels for his girl.
- The expression 'Ei - ja, tschiba, tschiba' emphasizes the emotional bond and affection that the gaucho feels for the girl and his desire to be close to her.
- The song shows the development of the relationship between the gaucho and his girl as she grows from a simple girl to a beautiful woman (Señorita). Despite the changes, his love for her remains constant and strong.
Interpretation
The lyrics to 'Der Mond hält seine Wacht' by
Peter Alexander tell a romantic story set against the backdrop of a rural area, likely in South America, as words like 'Gaucho' and 'Señorita' are used.
In the first verse, the protagonist, likely a Gaucho, sits by the old well where he waters his herd and sings a song for his little 'Niña', a Spanish word meaning 'girl'. His song is full of tenderness and love.
The chorus 'Der Mond hält seine Wacht' symbolizes the constant presence and protection of the moon during the night. The 'golden star' that seems to wave to the 'Niña' could be a symbol of the happiness or hope that the Gaucho feels for the girl.
The expression 'Ei - ja, tschiba, tschiba' is likely an expression of affection and closeness that the Gaucho feels for the girl. It underscores his affection and desire to be near her.
In the second verse, the story continues as the Gaucho roams the green pastures, an image of freedom and simple life. The 'Señorita', who was once his 'Niña', has now become a grown woman, beautiful like a 'white rose'. The Gaucho continues to sing his 'love song' to her, showcasing the endurance and constancy of his love for her.
Overall, the song is a romantic ballad that expresses the deep and enduring love of a Gaucho for his girl, regardless of time and changes in life. The moon and the golden star serve as constant symbols of this love, reaffirmed every night.