Arnulfo Gonzalez

The song 'Arnulfo Gonzalez' by Eliseo Robles is a classic corrido, a traditional Mexican ballad that tells a story of conflict, honor, and tragedy. The narrative begins with Arnulfo Gonzalez, a young man of 21, leaving his hometown of Allende, leaving behind fond memories and a sense of respect among the locals and the rural police. The story quickly escalates when Arnulfo encounters a rural officer, leading to a confrontation that spirals into violence.

The lyrics depict a tense exchange between Arnulfo and the rural officer, who becomes enraged and strikes Arnulfo with his pistol. This act of aggression sets off a deadly chain of events. Arnulfo, feeling disrespected and threatened, demands a chance to respond, leading to a gunfight. Arnulfo manages to shoot the lieutenant three times, leaving him gravely wounded. In a dramatic twist, the lieutenant, on the brink of death, asks Arnulfo to finish him off. However, as Arnulfo turns to deliver the final blow, the lieutenant shoots him, leaving Arnulfo mortally wounded.

The song concludes with Arnulfo's desperate attempt to reach a hospital, only to succumb to his injuries. The lieutenant, despite his bravery, meets his match in Arnulfo, a 'gallito' or a brave young man who was not to be underestimated. The corrido ends by acknowledging the bravery of both men and the tragic outcome of their encounter. This ballad reflects themes of honor, bravery, and the harsh realities of life and death in rural Mexico, capturing the essence of the corrido genre, which often highlights the struggles and stories of everyday people.