Al Galpe Por El Llano (Milonga)
Ruben Alberto Benegas
The Untamed Spirit of the Plains: A Journey Through Freedom and Identity
Ruben Alberto Benegas' song "Al Galpe Por El Llano (Milonga)" is a poetic exploration of freedom, identity, and the untamed spirit of the plains. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a wild horse, or 'potro,' that roams the vast, open landscapes without constraints. This horse symbolizes the singer's own life and philosophy, emphasizing a deep connection to nature and a rejection of societal constraints. The imagery of the horse that has only felt the touch of the wind and the distance speaks to a life lived on one's own terms, free from the pressures and expectations of others.
The song delves into themes of equality and self-reliance. The line "Sobre el mundo en lo parejo, toditos somos iguales" suggests that in the grand scheme of life, everyone is equal, and we all face the same ultimate fate. This egalitarian view is coupled with a strong sense of individualism, as the singer declares that he neither asks for nor gives advice, preferring to live his life according to his own rules. The metaphor of having no 'bozal' (muzzle) that fits him underscores his resistance to being controlled or tamed by external forces.
Throughout the song, there is a celebration of life's simple pleasures and the resilience required to endure its hardships. The singer describes his days as a series of sunrises and sunsets, filled with music and personal growth. The 'guitarreadas' (guitar sessions) represent moments of joy and cultural expression, while the 'herida' (wound) growing in his blood signifies the inevitable pain that comes with living authentically. Ultimately, the song is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who choose to live freely, guided by their own principles and the natural world around them.