El Arriero

Juanes' song 'El Arriero' paints a vivid picture of a rugged, independent mule driver, or 'arriero,' who lives life on his own terms. The lyrics are raw and unapologetic, reflecting the tough and often harsh realities of rural life. The protagonist is a campesino, a peasant farmer, who takes pride in his hard work and resilience. He is indifferent to the opinions and lives of others, focusing solely on his own path and survival. This attitude is encapsulated in the line 'me importa un culo no me interesa ni como viva ningun guevon,' which translates to 'I don't give a damn, I'm not interested in how any fool lives.'

The arriero's life is one of constant movement and labor, as he crosses paths, drives mules, drinks, and enjoys the simple pleasures of life, such as eating fruits and having brief encounters with women. He is not one to fall in love easily, as he states, 'no me enamoro ni por el putas,' meaning 'I don't fall in love, not even for a damn.' This reflects a sense of emotional detachment, perhaps as a means of self-preservation in a challenging environment. His tools of the trade, alpargatas (espadrilles) and a good machete, symbolize his readiness to face whatever comes his way.

The song also highlights the arriero's disdain for material attachment and societal norms. He is not 'consentido,' or spoiled, and does not cling to his possessions or the world around him. This is evident in the line 'pues no me apego de lo que tengo ni de este mundo gran malparido,' which translates to 'I don't cling to what I have or to this damn world.' His belief in the 'cajon,' or coffin, underscores his acceptance of mortality and the transient nature of life. The arriero's journey is one of perseverance and self-reliance, as he urges his mule to keep moving despite the impending nightfall, symbolizing his relentless drive and determination.