Por La Libertad

Barricada's song "Por La Libertad" is a poignant narrative that delves into the themes of love, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a turbulent time, where the protagonist's heart races with the intensity of both love and fear. The song opens with a sense of foreboding, as the evening air is thick with the promise of rain, symbolizing the impending turmoil. The protagonist's love for a man who is seen as a 'loser without a shirt' adds a layer of personal struggle to the broader political and social conflict.

The song recounts a tragic event where a companion is shot, highlighting the violence and loss that accompany the fight for freedom. The imagery of 'ideals of madness' and 'a spider's web' suggests the complexity and entanglement of revolutionary ideals. The protagonist's blue-eyed lover, with his pure gaze, becomes a symbol of hope and courage, helping to dispel the fear of fleeing. The refrain, "Qué difícil es contar los pasos que se dieron por la libertad," underscores the immense difficulty and sacrifice involved in the quest for freedom, with days stolen and lives drowned in blood.

As the song progresses, it touches on the aftermath of the struggle, with days of anguish, loneliness, and the long wait for a loved one's release from prison. The emotional climax comes with the reunion after twenty years, a moment filled with nervous anticipation and tender embraces. The song reflects on the youth stolen and lives lost, emphasizing that while the war may have ended, the fear and scars remain. The protagonist's lover, with his clean, blue-eyed gaze, once again helps to forget the fear of suffering. The song's powerful refrain is repeated, driving home the message that the path to freedom is fraught with difficulty and sacrifice, but it is a journey worth taking.