A Quien Engañas Abuelo

The song 'A Quien Engañas Abuelo' by Garzón y Collazos is a poignant narrative that delves into the themes of loss, political division, and the innocence of youth amidst the backdrop of rural Colombia. The lyrics are presented as a conversation between a grandfather and his grandchild, where the child confronts the grandfather's hidden sorrow over the loss of his parents, the child's own mother and father. The song's title, which translates to 'Who Are You Fooling, Grandfather?', sets the tone for a dialogue that uncovers the painful truth behind the grandfather's grief.

The grandfather's response to the child's probing reveals the harsh realities of life in the countryside, where political strife has led to violence and death, symbolized by the two crosses on the hill. The old man laments the departure of the farmhands and the difficulty of maintaining the farm, a metaphor for the broader struggles faced by rural communities during times of political turmoil. The child's innocent perspective is highlighted when questioning the value of political affiliations that only bring hatred and division, emphasizing the song's message about the futility of violence and the fundamental equality of all people before God.

The song also criticizes the false promises made by politicians, known as 'caudillos,' who exploit the rural populace for their own gain. The child's realization of the grandfather's pain and the broader social implications of political manipulation culminates in a plea for the grandfather to stop crying. This emotional plea serves as a call for unity and peace, transcending political lines and focusing on the shared humanity that binds individuals together. 'A Quien Engañas Abuelo' is a powerful commentary on the impact of political conflict on the innocent and the need for compassion and understanding in the face of division.