El Cazangero

Rubén Blades' song 'El Cazangero' is a poignant narrative that delves into the harsh realities of life in a prison camp, specifically in Coiba, Panama. The repetitive and haunting refrain 'Es el lamento del cazanguero en Coiba de madruga' (It's the lament of the prisoner in Coiba at dawn) sets a somber tone, reflecting the despair and hopelessness felt by the inmates. The term 'cazanguero' refers to a prisoner, and the song captures their daily struggles and the oppressive environment they endure.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the prisoners' routine, with lines like 'Apúrate chino Juan que a la fila llaman ya' (Hurry up, Chino Juan, they're calling the line already) and 'Haga sol o llueva o truene, a ala siembre hay que cuidar' (Whether it rains or shines, we must take care of the field). These lines highlight the relentless and grueling labor the prisoners are subjected to, regardless of the weather or their physical condition. The mention of 'Chino Juan' adds a personal touch, representing the individual stories and identities lost within the prison system.

Blades also touches on the broader theme of freedom and its absence, with the line 'La tristeza de todo preso es no tener la libertad' (The sadness of every prisoner is not having freedom). This sentiment resonates deeply, emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll of imprisonment. The song also references the arrival of a tortured 'gringo' (foreigner), hinting at the brutal treatment and human rights abuses that occur within the camp. Through 'El Cazangero,' Blades not only tells a story of suffering but also calls attention to the need for compassion and justice for those who are incarcerated.