Milonga Pa' Don Segundo

José Larralde's song "Milonga Pa' Don Segundo" is a poignant tribute to a beloved figure, Don Segundo, whose passing has left a profound void in his community. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a place steeped in sorrow and nostalgia, where every element of the environment reflects the absence of this cherished individual. The song opens with the community, or 'el pago,' mourning the loss of a friend, emphasizing the deep emotional impact of Don Segundo's death.

The imagery in the song is rich and evocative, with descriptions of a once lively ranch now turned into a desolate 'tapera' (abandoned house). The extinguished lantern and the closed window symbolize the end of an era, where light and warmth have been replaced by darkness and cold. The encroaching weeds and the erased path from the kitchen to the barn suggest a place that has stopped in time, waiting in vain for its master to return. The loneliness is palpable, extending from the gate to the watering troughs, where even a dog’s footsteps echo the solitude.

Larralde's use of metaphors is particularly striking. The squeaky windmill with 'more turns than destiny' and the slackened fence wires paying homage to Don Segundo highlight the deep connection between the man and his land. The silence of the forest and the mournful whistle of Don Segundo further underscore the sense of loss and respect for a life well-lived. This song is not just a lament for a person but a reflection on the inevitable passage of time and the enduring impact one individual can have on their surroundings.