El Orejano

I know that in the hometown they have an idea of me
because I don't bow down to those in charge, because by disregarding others' footprints
I carve my path to go wherever I want.

Because they haven't seen me grovel or sniff around
to make a quick buck, and they know well that I'm tough in speech
and no mule bit can hold me back.

Because when I have to speak the truth
I speak it straight, like a man,
even if those truths reveal unpleasant things
where no one would think there were worms.

Because the rich man with his back covered
for whom no laws apply, no commissioner
I treat him the same as one who only has
a rag to cover his behind.

Because I'm not filled with four lies by the big shots
who come from town to praise worn-out currencies
and make promises they never keep.

Because when I brought my woman to the ranch
I forgot there are judges to officiate weddings, and that the best woman is worth nothing
if the man hasn't paid the rights for her.

Because I raised my kids to be unfaithful
even though the priest screams they'll go to hell, because it's no use having those who only know
how to spend all day gazing at the sky.

Because even though I have nothing to my name
I'm richer than those who expand their lands
by paying the poor worker with dried ink
who swells with tears.

That's why they have an idea of me in the hometown,
because a quebracho tree stands among the ceibos, because they've all been branded
and envy seeing me as an outsider.

And what do I care, I'm wild and free
I don't follow leaders or get tangled in laws
and I go where I please, clearings of my own choosing
and I need no one to make me a seasoned local.