Tengo

Pablo Milanés' song 'Tengo' is a powerful anthem of self-realization and social equality. The lyrics reflect a profound transformation from a state of deprivation to one of empowerment and ownership. Milanés, a prominent figure in the Nueva Trova movement, uses his personal narrative to symbolize the broader social changes in Cuba following the revolution. The repeated use of 'tengo' (I have) underscores the newfound sense of possession and pride in one's country and identity.

The song begins with Milanés reflecting on his past as 'Juan sin Nada' (John with Nothing) and his present as 'Juan con Todo' (John with Everything). This stark contrast highlights the dramatic shift in his circumstances, which he attributes to the social and political changes in Cuba. The lyrics celebrate the ability to walk freely in his country, to claim ownership of the land, and to engage with others on equal terms. This sense of belonging and equality is further emphasized by his ability to address a bank administrator as 'compañero' (comrade) rather than 'señor' (sir), signifying a break from hierarchical and colonial structures.

Milanés also addresses racial equality, noting that as a black man, he can now enter spaces that were previously off-limits to him. This includes public places like bars, hotels, and even the countryside, where he no longer fears being detained or dispossessed. The song's imagery of the sea as a 'gigante azul abierto democrático' (giant blue open democratic) symbolizes the vast, inclusive nature of the new society. The final verses celebrate the achievements of literacy, employment, and the ability to think and laugh freely, encapsulating the essence of human dignity and self-worth.

'Tengo' is not just a personal declaration but a collective one, resonating with the experiences of many who lived through the Cuban revolution. It is a testament to the power of social change and the enduring human spirit's quest for equality and justice.