Diez Décimas de Saludo Al Pueblo Argentino

Alfredo Zitarrosa's "Diez Décimas de Saludo Al Pueblo Argentino" is a profound lyrical homage to the shared history and struggles of Latin American people, particularly focusing on the unity between Uruguayans and Argentinians. The song begins with a metaphorical reference to a village named 'no-me-olvides' (forget-me-not), which symbolizes the importance of remembering and cherishing one's roots and history. Zitarrosa emphasizes that some memories can be as precious as gems, while forgetting can be painful and destructive. The imagery of an iceberg, with its massive size hidden beneath the surface, serves as a metaphor for the depth and complexity of the village's history and the latent potential within its people.

The song continues to describe the village as calm on the surface but with the power of thunder lying underneath, ready to rise up when the time comes. This reflects the resilience and potential for revolution among the people, reminiscent of historical uprisings. Zitarrosa also touches on the idea that progress may seem slow, but what appears to be a setback can quickly become a triumph for those who are patient and wise. The lyrics convey a sense of pride in the people's ability to shape their own history, without being swayed by the allure of glory or the uncertainty of the future.

Zitarrosa extends the song's message beyond Uruguay, emphasizing solidarity with all Latin American countries. He criticizes those who have exploited the continent for personal gain, contrasting them with the true spirit of the 'pueblo oriental' (Eastern people), a term used to refer to Uruguayans. The song is a call for unity among all Latin Americans, regardless of nationality, as they share common dreams and struggles. The closing verses offer a fraternal greeting to the Argentine people, expressing hope for better times and a shared commitment to the future. Zitarrosa's song is not just a greeting but a rallying cry for collective action and remembrance, delivered through the heartfelt medium of music.