El Prisionero

Damas Gratis, a renowned Argentine cumbia band, brings forth a poignant narrative in their song “El Prisionero.” The lyrics delve into the life of a man who finds himself imprisoned, reflecting on the choices that led him to lose his freedom. The song opens with the protagonist contemplating escape, a metaphor for his desire to break free from the consequences of his actions. The mention of “el coreano” being “hasta las manos” suggests that he is deeply entangled in his predicament, possibly due to a crime or a significant mistake.

The song takes a deeply emotional turn as it describes the suffering of the protagonist’s mother. Her visits to the prison are filled with pain, which she tries to hide to protect her son. However, once home, she cannot contain her grief, and her cries become a haunting reminder of the impact of his actions. This portrayal of maternal suffering adds a layer of emotional depth, highlighting the broader consequences of the protagonist’s choices on his loved ones.

In the latter part of the song, the narrative shifts to a personal anecdote from the singer, who shares his own brush with crime and the life-changing lesson he learned. A near-fatal encounter, symbolized by a bullet in his chest, serves as a divine intervention that alters his path. The voice of God, urging him to heed the lesson, underscores the theme of redemption. The singer’s transformation from a life of crime to one of music and reflection offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that change is possible even in the darkest of circumstances.