Dejale Al Diablo Que Cante

José Larralde's song 'Dejale Al Diablo Que Cante' is a poignant reflection on the unpredictability of life and the resilience required to navigate its challenges. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a farmer's struggle with the elements, where the sky is often obscured by erratic clouds, and the land alternates between being a swamp and a rock-hard surface. This imagery symbolizes the constant and often harsh changes that life throws at us, making it difficult to find stability and success.

The song delves into the theme of luck, or rather the lack thereof. The farmer laments his misfortune, noting that despite his hard work, he rarely sees the fruits of his labor. The line 'Clavo la reja a lo guay, y ni una planta que salga' (I plant the plow with effort, and not a single plant grows) encapsulates this sentiment of relentless effort met with little reward. This struggle is further emphasized by the invocation of 'Mandinga,' a folkloric figure often associated with the devil, who mocks the farmer's innocence and naivety.

However, the song is not entirely about despair. The repeated refrain 'déjelo al Diablo que cante' (let the Devil sing) suggests a form of acceptance and resilience. It implies that one should let go of the things beyond their control and focus on enduring the hardships with strength and dignity. The request for a 'torzal de buena lonja que aguante' (a strong leather strap that holds) symbolizes the need for inner strength and resilience. In essence, Larralde's song is a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.