Jornalero

Alci Acosta's song 'Jornalero' is a poignant reflection on the hardships faced by laborers, or 'jornaleros,' who dedicate their lives to strenuous work with little to no recognition or reward. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a worker who has spent twenty years in the same workshop, enduring relentless toil and receiving only bitterness and dismissal as compensation. This narrative highlights the exploitation and lack of appreciation that many workers experience, emphasizing the disparity between their efforts and the meager rewards they receive.

The song also critiques the attitudes of the wealthy and powerful, who often look down upon these hardworking individuals. Acosta condemns the arrogance of those who have amassed wealth on the backs of laborers, pointing out the hypocrisy and moral failing in their disdainful treatment of the very people who have contributed to their success. The repeated phrase, 'Si te gusta, bien; y si no, te vas!' (If you like it, fine; if not, leave!), underscores the callousness and indifference of the elite towards the plight of the working class.

Furthermore, 'Jornalero' serves as a reminder of the inevitable equality that death brings. Acosta urges the wealthy to remember that, in the end, everyone is equal before God, regardless of their social or economic status. This message is a powerful call for empathy and justice, advocating for a more humane and respectful treatment of workers. The song resonates deeply with themes of social justice, dignity, and the universal human condition, making it a timeless anthem for the working class.