Yo defiendo mi tierra

Rolando Alárcon's song "Yo defiendo mi tierra" is a powerful anthem of love, resilience, and protection for one's homeland. The lyrics express a deep connection to the land, emphasizing the personal and communal responsibility to defend it. Alárcon's repetition of the phrase "porque es mía" (because it is mine) underscores a sense of ownership and duty. The imagery of defending the land both day and night, with the help of natural elements like the wind and the stars (the three Marías), adds a poetic layer to the narrative, suggesting that the land itself is an ally in this struggle.

The song also touches on the hardships faced by the people, particularly the miners and their families. The poignant image of the miner's wife crossing the pampa with bleeding feet and tears in her eyes highlights the suffering and sacrifices made by the community. Alárcon's questioning of why the people cry reflects a deep empathy and a desire to understand and alleviate their pain. This verse serves as a reminder of the human cost of exploitation and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.

In the final verses, Alárcon calls for unity and resistance against external threats. The declaration that they do not want strangers to take away what the land provides speaks to a broader theme of self-determination and the right to live in peace. The desire to dry the tears of the women and remove the shadows from the miners' faces encapsulates a vision of a better future, one where the community can thrive without fear or suffering. Through this song, Alárcon not only defends his land but also champions the dignity and resilience of its people.