Se Les Pelo Baltazar
La Arrolladora Banda El Limon
The Elusive Baltazar: A Tale of Freedom and Cunning
The song "Se Les Pelo Baltazar" by La Arrolladora Banda El Limon tells a story of a man named Baltazar who is sought by the authorities but manages to evade capture. The lyrics paint a picture of a scene in rural Mexico, where the protagonist is grinding sugarcane in his beloved ranch when the law enforcement arrives to take him to jail. However, Baltazar is compared to a 'lampareado' deer, a term that suggests he is as elusive as a deer caught in the headlights but still able to escape. The metaphor emphasizes his cunning and experience, which enable him to avoid the traps set for him.
The song continues to describe Baltazar's escape, highlighting his intimate connection with his surroundings and his horse, which he rides into the mountains. This bond with his horse, which is capable of dancing to various types of music, symbolizes Baltazar's freedom and his deep roots in his culture and land. The mention of Culiacan, a city in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico, evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for his friends and a 'linda güera,' which could refer to a beautiful woman or a dear friend.
The final stanza of the song shifts to a celebratory tone, with the narrator inviting the musicians to tune their instruments as they prepare to sing and play in honor of Baltazar. The date mentioned, 'seis de Enero' (January 6th), is the Feast of the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings' Day, which is traditionally celebrated in Mexico and could be a reference to Baltazar's own name, as one of the Biblical Magi is named Balthazar. The song ends on a note of celebration, suggesting that Baltazar's cleverness and the joy he brings to his community are worth celebrating.