Milonga Del Muerto

Jorge Luis Borges' 'Milonga Del Muerto' is a haunting exploration of the human experience in the face of war and mortality. The song's lyrics, rich with vivid imagery and profound reflections, delve into the life and death of a soldier. Borges, known for his literary prowess, uses this song to paint a poignant picture of the soldier's journey from life to death, capturing the essence of his bravery and the futility of war.

The song begins with the soldier's dreamlike state, suggesting that dreams can reveal deeper truths. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the soldier's experiences are depicted with a sense of inevitability and fatalism. The mention of 'tumba y los hospitales' (the tomb and hospitals) underscores the grim reality of war, where death and suffering are ever-present. Borges' choice to highlight the soldier's provincial origins and the secrecy surrounding wartime deaths ('no conviene que se sepa que muere gente en la guerra') adds a layer of social commentary on the often-hidden costs of conflict.

As the soldier is thrust into battle, the lyrics describe his transformation from an ordinary man to a participant in the horrors of war. The juxtaposition of the rifle and the crucifix symbolizes the intersection of violence and faith, a common theme in wartime narratives. The soldier's internal struggle with courage is poignantly captured in his desire to know if he is brave, a question answered only in the moment of his death. Borges' recitation at the end, reflecting on the soldier's 'secreta victoria' (secret victory), evokes a sense of envy and sorrow, highlighting the complex emotions surrounding the soldier's fate.

' Milonga Del Muerto' is a powerful meditation on the human condition, bravery, and the tragic consequences of war. Borges' lyrical mastery and deep philosophical insights make this song a timeless reflection on the sacrifices made by those who go to war.