Responde Tú...

Pablo Milanés' song 'Responde Tú...' is a poignant exploration of the emotional and cultural dislocation experienced by those who have left their homeland, specifically Cuba. The song is a direct address to those who have emigrated, asking them to reflect on what they have lost and what they seek to find in foreign lands. Milanés uses vivid imagery of Cuba's natural beauty—'verde y verde, azul y azul, palma y palma bajo el cielo'—to evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. This repetition underscores the irreplaceable uniqueness of the Cuban landscape and the deep connection the emigrants have with their homeland.

The song also delves into the loss of cultural identity, as seen in the lines 'Tú, que tu lengua olvidaste, responde tú, y en lengua extraña masticas el güel y el yu.' Here, Milanés highlights the struggle of adapting to a new language and culture, which can leave one feeling 'mudo' or mute. This metaphor of losing one's voice symbolizes a broader loss of identity and belonging, emphasizing the emotional toll of assimilation and the difficulty of maintaining one's cultural roots in a foreign environment.

Furthermore, Milanés touches on the theme of mortality and the finality of leaving one's homeland. The line 'dónde tu padre reposa bajo una cruz, ¿dónde dejarás tus huesos?' poignantly questions where the emigrants will find their final resting place, contrasting the familiar and sacred ground of their ancestors with the uncertainty of a foreign land. This evokes a deep sense of dislocation and existential questioning, urging the listener to consider the profound implications of leaving one's homeland behind.

Through 'Responde Tú...', Pablo Milanés crafts a deeply emotional and reflective piece that resonates with the universal themes of home, identity, and belonging. His evocative lyrics and heartfelt delivery invite listeners to ponder the true cost of emigration and the enduring ties to one's roots.