Por Dos Pesos Con Cincuenta

Argentino Luna's song "Por Dos Pesos Con Cincuenta" is a poignant narrative that delves deep into the life of a man who has been worn down by the relentless grind of poverty. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who, despite his tireless efforts, remains trapped in a cycle of hardship and unfulfilled dreams. The song's title, which translates to "For Two Pesos and Fifty Cents," underscores the meager compensation for a lifetime of labor, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of economic exploitation.

The song begins by describing the physical toll of labor on the protagonist, who works tirelessly to build homes for others while being unable to provide a decent living space for his own family. The imagery of calloused hands and the relentless use of a spoon to build houses serves as a powerful metaphor for the sacrifices and unrecognized efforts of the working class. Despite his struggles, the protagonist finds solace in love and family, even though he cannot afford to give them a better life. The mention of his child being a "grace of God" despite their poverty adds a layer of spiritual resilience and hope.

As the song progresses, it delves into the societal and existential dimensions of the protagonist's plight. He is marked by society as a man of little value, destined to be a laborer. The lyrics poignantly capture his internal conflict and disillusionment with religion and society. He feels abandoned by a God who is supposed to see everything but seems to overlook his suffering. The song culminates in a heart-wrenching reflection on the protagonist's old age, where he is left with nothing but the remnants of his dreams and a sense of betrayal by the very notion that work should dignify a person. The final lines, filled with raw emotion, encapsulate the bitterness and resignation of a life spent in unending toil.

"Por Dos Pesos Con Cincuenta" is a powerful commentary on the human cost of poverty and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of relentless adversity. It serves as a stark reminder of the social injustices that persist and the need for empathy and systemic change to uplift those who are marginalized and forgotten.