Me Matan Si No Trabajo

Daniel Viglietti's song 'Me Matan Si No Trabajo' poignantly captures the harsh realities of labor and existence. The repetitive chorus, 'Me matan si no trabajo, y si trabajo me matan,' translates to 'They kill me if I don't work, and if I work, they kill me.' This line encapsulates the inescapable cycle of exploitation and suffering faced by workers. The repetition emphasizes the relentless nature of this struggle, suggesting that no matter the choice, the outcome remains the same—oppression and death, either literal or metaphorical.

The second verse introduces a man staring at the rising sun, yet unable to see it. This imagery of blindness serves as a powerful metaphor for the lack of awareness or hope among the oppressed. The man's serious demeanor reflects the gravity of his situation, highlighting how the daily grind can strip individuals of their ability to appreciate life's simple beauties. The sun, a universal symbol of hope and renewal, becomes meaningless to those who are metaphorically 'blind' due to their circumstances.

In the third verse, Viglietti describes a child playing a game where he pretends to kill another child. This disturbing image draws a parallel between the innocence of childhood and the brutal reality of adulthood. The line 'Hay niños que se parecen a los hombres trabajando' ('There are children who resemble men working') underscores how societal conditions force children to prematurely adopt adult roles, losing their innocence in the process. The song questions who will tell these children, as they grow, that men are not children, highlighting the loss of innocence and the harsh transition into the adult world of labor and exploitation.

Through vivid imagery and poignant repetition, 'Me Matan Si No Trabajo' serves as a powerful critique of the socio-economic conditions that trap individuals in a cycle of exploitation and despair. Viglietti's folk style, known for its political and social commentary, shines through in this song, making it a timeless piece that resonates with the struggles of the working class.