Junts

Lluís Llach's song 'Junts' is a poignant exploration of the enduring bond between two siblings amidst a backdrop of hardship and loss. The Catalan word 'junts' translates to 'together,' and this theme of unity is central to the song. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two siblings who, despite their challenging circumstances, remain inseparable. The repetition of 'junts, junts, sempre junts' emphasizes their unwavering connection, suggesting that their togetherness is a source of strength and solace in a world that often feels cold and indifferent.

The song contrasts the siblings' unity with the absence of their parents. The father is described as having been taken away forever, symbolized by a horse, which could be a metaphor for death or abandonment. The mother, on the other hand, is depicted as being perpetually defeated by the 'feines d'amor' or 'labors of love,' indicating that she is overwhelmed by the demands of life and unable to provide the tenderness her children need. This absence of parental care forces the siblings to rely on each other, further deepening their bond.

Set against the backdrop of the Raval, a historically working-class neighborhood in Barcelona, the song also touches on themes of social marginalization and poverty. The mention of Christmas carols ('veus nadalenques') that mock their reality adds a layer of irony and sadness, highlighting the disparity between the festive cheer outside and their own somber existence. Despite these challenges, the siblings find comfort in their unity, falling asleep together, both 'junts i a prop teu' (together and close to you) and 'lluny, lluny, i tan junts' (far, far, and so together), underscoring the paradox of their situation: physically distant from a nurturing environment but emotionally inseparable from each other.