Viene, viene

Alfredo Zitarrosa's song 'Viene, viene' is a powerful anthem that resonates with themes of freedom and social justice. The song, set to the rhythm of a milonga, a traditional Uruguayan musical style, speaks to the universal desire for liberty and the collective struggle of the working class. The repetition of 'viene, viene, vendrá' (it comes, it comes, it will come) emphasizes the inevitability and hope of freedom's arrival, suggesting a future where liberty is not just a dream but a reality.

The lyrics mention specific locations like Higueritas and Zapará, grounding the song in a particular cultural and geographical context. These places are symbolic of the broader struggle for freedom, with the voice of the people 'reclamándola' (demanding it). This highlights the grassroots nature of the movement, where ordinary people, such as cane cutters and rural laborers, are united in their quest for justice. The song acknowledges the hardships faced by these individuals, who are often landless and deprived of basic necessities like a horse or bread.

Zitarrosa's lyrics also emphasize the universality of the struggle for freedom. The line 'Tiene tu mismo rostro y no es menos ni más' (It has your same face and is neither less nor more) suggests that the fight for liberty is a shared human experience, transcending individual differences. The absence of 'aureola ni barbijo' (halo nor mask) signifies that this movement is not led by saints or masked heroes but by ordinary people with a strong will ('voluntad'). This portrayal of the common man's struggle for freedom is both empowering and unifying, making 'Viene, viene' a timeless and poignant call to action.