El diablo

San Alejo's song "El diablo" delves into the profound and often unsettling theme of inner demons and personal struggles. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their darker side, symbolized by the 'diablo colorao' (red devil) that resides deep within their soul. This devil is not just a fleeting presence but a constant companion, waiting and lurking, influencing the person's actions and thoughts. The repetition of the phrase 'el diablo colorao' emphasizes the persistent and pervasive nature of this inner turmoil.

The song uses powerful imagery to describe the devil's presence, such as living in an 'astrojo' (a thicket) and consuming everything in its path. This metaphor highlights the destructive and consuming nature of the inner demon. The lyrics also reflect a sense of regret and acknowledgment of past mistakes, as the narrator confesses their errors and laments their consequences. The struggle is not just against an external force but an internal battle that the narrator feels deeply within their body and soul.

The chorus reinforces the idea that the devil is inherently evil and corrupting, a force that has been known since childhood but often ignored. This speaks to the universal human experience of recognizing our flaws and darker impulses but sometimes failing to address them. The narrator's attempts to control or rid themselves of this devil, such as carrying it in a 'cabestrillo' (sling) and giving it a 'palo parejo' (steady beating), symbolize the ongoing and often futile efforts to overcome these inner demons. Despite these efforts, the devil remains, highlighting the difficulty of truly conquering one's inner struggles.