Triunfo agrario

Alfredo Zitarrosa's song 'Triunfo agrario' is a poignant reflection on the struggles and hopes of rural farmers in Latin America. The song is steeped in the pain and resilience of those who work the land, yet find themselves oppressed by the latifundio system—a form of large estate farming that often leads to the exploitation and displacement of small farmers. Zitarrosa's lyrics convey a deep sense of injustice and a longing for change, as he speaks to both his mother and father, symbolizing the generational struggle for land and dignity.

The song opens with a paradoxical statement: 'Este es un triunfo, madre, pero sin triunfo' (This is a triumph, mother, but without triumph). This line sets the tone for the entire piece, highlighting the bittersweet reality of the farmers' situation. Despite their hard work and resilience, they are still suffering under the weight of the latifundio. The lyrics 'Nos duele hasta los huesos el latifundio' (The latifundio hurts us to the bone) vividly capture the physical and emotional toll of this oppressive system. Zitarrosa's call for change is clear in the lines 'El que no cambia todo, no cambia nada!' (He who changes nothing, changes nothing!), urging a complete overhaul of the existing conditions.

As the song progresses, Zitarrosa shifts from despair to a more hopeful tone. He speaks of a 'nuevo tiempo' (new time) and the breaking of silence, symbolizing the emergence of a new era of agrarian reform and justice. The imagery of seeds and life growing from the earth is powerful, suggesting that the dreams and efforts of past generations will eventually bear fruit. The line 'Que si la tierra es hembra, la tierra es mía' (If the land is female, the land is mine) underscores a deep connection to the land, portraying it as a nurturing, life-giving force that rightfully belongs to those who cultivate it.

Zitarrosa's 'Triunfo agrario' is not just a song; it is a rallying cry for agrarian justice and a testament to the enduring spirit of rural communities. It calls for solidarity and action, reminding listeners that true change requires a collective effort to overturn oppressive systems and reclaim the land for those who work it.