La Prisión De Lérida

Joan Manuel Serrat's 'La Prisión De Lérida' is a poignant ballad that delves into themes of imprisonment, desperation, and sacrifice. The song is set in the city of Lérida, where a prison holds numerous inmates. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the prison's atmosphere, with 150 prisoners singing a song that reaches the ears of a young girl from a high vantage point. This girl, moved by their plight, promises to seek her father's help to secure their release.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the girl, Margarita, approaches her father, pleading for the keys to the prison. Her father, however, reveals a grim fate for the prisoners, stating that they will all be hanged the next day. In a heart-wrenching twist, Margarita asks to be hanged alongside the prisoners, demonstrating her profound empathy and willingness to sacrifice herself for their cause. The final verses of the song add a touch of tragic beauty, as Margarita requests that flowers be placed on each gallows, so that passersby may experience a pleasant scent despite the grim scene.

Serrat's song is rich with metaphors and cultural references. The prison symbolizes not just a physical confinement but also the broader societal constraints and injustices. Margarita's character embodies compassion and selflessness, challenging the harshness of her father's judgment. The flowers on the gallows serve as a poignant metaphor for finding beauty and humanity even in the darkest of circumstances. Through 'La Prisión De Lérida,' Serrat invites listeners to reflect on themes of justice, empathy, and the human capacity for sacrifice.