Por Los Caminos: (Huella)

Ruben Alberto Benegas' song "Por Los Caminos: (Huella)" is a poetic exploration of life and the journey through the vast landscapes of the Argentine pampas. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a solitary traveler, likely a gaucho, who navigates the open plains with his livestock. The imagery of the 'tropa' (herd) and the 'pampa' (plains) sets the stage for a life of constant movement and the search for fortune, as indicated by the line 'La suerte en ancas' (luck on the haunches).

The song delves into the transient nature of the traveler's existence. The lines 'No me apure el retorno / No tengo rancho' (Don't rush my return / I don't have a ranch) suggest a life without a permanent home, where the journey itself becomes the essence of living. The recurring motif of 'huella' (footprint or path) symbolizes the different directions life can take. One path leads to the sun and daylight, while another brings the night and stars, representing the duality of experiences and emotions encountered along the way.

Benegas uses the metaphor of the 'poncho negro estrellado' (starry black poncho) to describe the night sky covering the traveler, providing a sense of comfort and protection. The song's refrain, 'A la huella, huella, huellita / Me voy cantando' (To the path, little path / I go singing), emphasizes the joy and resilience found in the journey itself. The simple act of singing while traveling highlights the importance of finding solace and happiness in the present moment, despite the uncertainties of the future.

"Por Los Caminos: (Huella)" is a celebration of the nomadic spirit and the beauty of the Argentine landscape. It reflects on the themes of freedom, the passage of time, and the connection between humans and nature, all while capturing the essence of the gaucho's life.