La Conmemorativa

Adan Sanchez's song "La Conmemorativa" delves into the dark and haunting legacy of the .45 caliber firearm, a weapon that has left an indelible mark on history and human lives. The song opens with a vivid image of the protagonist placing a .45 in someone's hand, emphasizing the trust and responsibility that comes with wielding such a powerful weapon. The lyrics suggest that the person receiving the gun is just and humane, hinting at the complex moral landscape of those who bear arms, especially in positions of command.

The song references the First World War, specifically the year 1917, and the 50th anniversary in 1967, marking a period of reflection and remembrance. The term "conmemorativa" (commemorative) is used to describe the .45, symbolizing not just a weapon but a historical artifact that carries the weight of countless deaths. The lyrics paint a grim picture of the battlefield, where wounded soldiers were finished off with gunfire, their cries echoing in the fields. This stark imagery serves as a poignant reminder of the brutal realities of war and the human cost of conflict.

Sanchez also touches on the mysterious and almost mythical nature of the .45, suggesting that its invention might have been the work of the devil. Despite its aesthetic appeal, the gun's deadly purpose is clear, and its "kisses"—a metaphor for bullets—are to be avoided at all costs. The song concludes with a farewell to Alfredo Sauceda, entrusting him with the "consentida" (the cherished one), and a somber hope that if they are ever killed, it will be by the commemorative .45. This final sentiment underscores the deep connection between the weapon and the lives it has touched, both as a tool of death and a symbol of remembrance.