Desahucio
Willie Colón
A Cry for Justice: The Heartfelt Plea in Willie Colón's 'Desahucio'
Willie Colón's song 'Desahucio' is a powerful narrative that delves into the harsh realities faced by the impoverished. The title itself, which translates to 'Eviction,' sets the stage for a story of displacement and social injustice. The opening lines, 'La soga sigue partiendo por lo más fino,' metaphorically describe how the weakest in society are always the first to suffer. Colón criticizes the societal structure where lacking money is almost criminal, and injustice prevails over compassion.
The song tells the story of poor people who, in their desperation, occupy land illegally to have a place to live and start anew. Despite knowing their actions were against the law, they had no other choice. This illegal occupation leads to their eviction, which is carried out with brutal force, transforming justice into an act of violence. The tragic death of a humble woman during the eviction highlights the failure of the law when it is applied without empathy or understanding.
Colón's lyrics also touch on the broader implications of this event. The 'pelotón de fusilamiento' or firing squad, symbolizes the extreme measures taken against the poor, devoid of any explanation or compassion. The song's climax, where innocent bloodshed awakens the community, serves as a poignant reminder that true justice and peace cannot exist without dignity and respect for all. Colón calls for a society where everyone has the right to live with dignity, free from hunger and oppression, emphasizing that without justice, there can be no peace.
The song concludes with a powerful message: the land belongs to everyone, and it should not be monopolized or exploited. Colón warns that if true change does not come, divine retribution might be inevitable. This final plea underscores the urgency for social and economic inclusion, making 'Desahucio' not just a song, but a call to action for justice and equality.