Milonga Para Don Pedro (Milonga)

Ruben Alberto Benegas' song "Milonga Para Don Pedro (Milonga)" paints a vivid picture of the life of a gaucho, a traditional Argentine cowboy, through the lens of Don Pedro. The lyrics are rich with imagery and cultural references, capturing the essence of a life marked by hard work, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. The song opens with the description of Don Pedro as a 'pión golondrina,' a migratory laborer, and a 'gaucho curtido,' a seasoned cowboy. This sets the stage for a narrative that delves into the daily struggles and small joys of a life spent working the fields.

The song's verses describe the grueling labor involved in harvesting potatoes, with Don Pedro and his fellow workers toiling under the harsh sun. The imagery of 'cobijas sucias, colchón de chala' (dirty blankets, straw mattress) highlights the rough living conditions they endure. Despite these hardships, there is a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the workers, as they labor together and find solace in each other's company. The mention of 'truquiada, cuentos y mates' (card games, stories, and mate tea) in the evening underscores the importance of community and simple pleasures in their lives.

As night falls, the song shifts to a more introspective tone, with Don Pedro playing milongas, a traditional Argentine folk music, to lull himself to sleep. This act of playing music serves as a metaphor for finding peace and comfort amidst the challenges of daily life. The milonga, with its melancholic yet soothing melodies, reflects the resilience and enduring spirit of the gaucho. Through this song, Benegas not only pays tribute to Don Pedro but also to the countless unnamed laborers who embody the strength and perseverance of the human spirit.