A Sandino

The song 'A Sandino' by Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy is a tribute to the Nicaraguan revolutionary leader Augusto César Sandino, who fought against the U.S. military occupation of Nicaragua in the early 20th century. The lyrics paint Sandino as a man of the people, someone who did not seek power for its own sake but was driven by a deep love for his country and a desire for its freedom and sovereignty.

The song begins by addressing the label of 'bandolero' (bandit) that was often used to discredit Sandino, asserting that he was called this simply because he dared to 'look at the sun directly,' a metaphor for challenging authority and fighting for justice. The reference to not wanting to be president emphasizes Sandino's commitment to his cause over any personal ambition. The imagery of learning from the mountains and the animal kingdom suggests a connection with nature and the wisdom to be found in it, including the need to confront and eliminate dangerous threats, symbolized by the serpent and its deadly venom.

The chorus, 'Y se fue, y se fue, eran treinta con él,' highlights the humble beginnings of Sandino's movement, which started with just a small group of followers. The song also celebrates the diverse makeup of Sandino's army, including children, women, and barefoot men, all united in their love for Nicaragua. The verses evoke a sense of camaraderie and beauty in the struggle, with references to traditional songs and the image of a woman standing guard in a guerrilla camp, reinforcing the idea that the revolution was a collective, cultural, and deeply human endeavor.