Coplas del tiempo (1ª parte: Los mineros en huelga)

Rolando Alárcon's song, 'Coplas del tiempo (1ª parte: Los mineros en huelga),' is a powerful anthem that captures the spirit of resistance and solidarity among Spanish miners. The song begins by highlighting the fervent uprising in Asturias, a region known for its mining industry. The 'lumbre' or fire in Asturias symbolizes the spark of rebellion that has the potential to ignite change across Spain. Alárcon calls upon the miners, urging them to recognize the weight of their struggle and the broader impact it can have on the nation's destiny.

The lyrics emphasize the unity among different working-class groups, from miners to factory workers and potentially even farmers. This collective action is portrayed as a force that could mobilize 'cientos de miles' or hundreds of thousands, underscoring the power of solidarity. The song also takes a critical stance against the exploiters, suggesting that their downfall is imminent due to the rising tide of strikes. Alárcon's wish for the exploiters to spend their ill-gotten gains on medicine adds a touch of poetic justice, reflecting the deep-seated resentment towards those who profit from the labor of others.

Interestingly, the song also acknowledges the support of progressive priests who stand with the striking miners, indicating a broader social and moral backing for the movement. The invocation of various saints and the Virgin Mary to bless and spread the strike to other regions like Andalucía, Extremadura, and Barcelona adds a spiritual dimension to the struggle, blending faith with activism. The song concludes with a nod to the potential repercussions from the authorities, hinting at the tension between the state and the working class. Alárcon's version, with its slight lyrical variations, remains a stirring call to action and a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance among the oppressed.