No Gre Gre

Los Olimareños, a renowned Uruguayan folk duo, are known for their poignant and socially conscious lyrics. 'No Gre Gre' is a powerful song that delves into themes of struggle, resilience, and resistance. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the hardships faced by the oppressed, while also highlighting their unyielding spirit and determination to stand against injustice.

The opening lines, 'Duele y vela en la alta noche / Ojo abierto en el abismo,' set a somber tone, describing the pain and sleepless nights endured by those who are constantly on edge, living in a state of perpetual vigilance. This imagery of an 'open eye in the abyss' suggests a deep awareness of the surrounding darkness and challenges. The song speaks to the dreams and hopes of youth, who, despite the bleakness, strive to shape a better future from the 'dark clay' of their present circumstances.

As the song progresses, it addresses the harsh realities of daily life, where truth is often suppressed and distorted. The lines 'Cada día es cada día / Un presente más canalla' reflect a sense of disillusionment with the present, where deceit and oppression are rampant. The metaphor of 'the eye in the keyhole' and 'ears on the wall' evokes a sense of constant surveillance and mistrust, highlighting the oppressive environment in which the marginalized live.

The final stanza is a powerful declaration of defiance. Despite the relentless hardships and the 'hands turned to stone,' the oppressed refuse to be broken. The 'bones of the hungry' stand firm, symbolizing their unbreakable spirit and refusal to succumb to their plight. The imagery of vultures circling overhead, brought by the airplane, suggests an external threat or exploitation, yet the resilient bones of the hungry defiantly say 'no.' This powerful ending underscores the theme of resistance and the unyielding will to fight against oppression, no matter the odds.