De La Tierra

Camila Moreno's song "De La Tierra" is a powerful protest anthem that delves into themes of social injustice, government oppression, and the resilience of the human spirit. The song opens with the stark image of a man falling to a government bullet, a poignant metaphor for the countless lives lost to state violence. This man, described as being 'of the earth' and 'of the volcano,' symbolizes a deep connection to the land and an inherent strength that the oppressors can never possess. The repetition of his voice reclaiming breath underscores the enduring spirit of resistance, even in the face of death.

The lyrics further explore the personal and communal grief that follows such violence. The lines questioning who will tell the man's body to leave and who will explain his absence to his wife highlight the intimate, devastating impact of these losses. The mention of the national news lying about the incident points to the manipulation and control of information by those in power, a common tactic to maintain their dominance and suppress dissent.

Moreno also addresses the impunity of the police ('paco') and the government's role in perpetuating this cycle of violence. The imagery of the government polishing the boots of the 'señor' suggests a servile relationship to higher powers, prioritizing their interests over justice and peace. Despite the oppressors' possession of weapons, the song asserts that they lack true strength, which lies in authenticity and truth. The repeated assertion that the man is 'the truth' and 'of the earth' serves as a rallying cry for those who fight against oppression, emphasizing that their connection to the land and their cause is unassailable.