A les cinquanta estrelles (Dona)

Lluís Llach's song 'A les cinquanta estrelles (Dona)' is a poignant and introspective reflection on the horrors of war and the emotional toll it takes on soldiers. The song is written as a letter from a soldier to his beloved, expressing his anguish and the moral conflict he faces. Llach, a renowned Catalan singer-songwriter known for his politically charged and emotionally resonant music, uses this song to delve into the personal and ethical struggles of a soldier caught in the throes of conflict.

The lyrics begin with the soldier addressing his beloved, acknowledging the uncertainty of his survival and the possibility that he may not be able to express his love again. The imagery of the rifle left on the table symbolizes the ever-present threat of violence and the soldier's internal battle with the role he is forced to play. The repeated use of 'ai amor' (oh love) underscores the deep emotional connection and the pain of separation caused by the war.

As the song progresses, the soldier grapples with the moral implications of his actions. He questions the legitimacy of his right to kill and the dehumanizing effect of war, where lives are reduced to mere numbers. The haunting lines 'morts amb ulls blancs em són companys' (the dead with white eyes are my companions) evoke the haunting presence of those who have perished, further emphasizing the soldier's torment. The song culminates in a powerful declaration of the soldier's willingness to sacrifice himself to end the cycle of violence, offering his body to stop the heart that has not truly lived until now.

Llach's 'A les cinquanta estrelles (Dona)' is a deeply moving exploration of the human cost of war, highlighting the emotional and ethical struggles faced by those on the front lines. It serves as a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made by soldiers and the enduring impact of conflict on the human soul.