Los piconeros

The song 'Los Piconeros' performed by Sara Montiel is a traditional Spanish song that delves into the themes of love and longing within the context of the working class, specifically coal miners known as 'piconeros'. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman, referred to as 'La piconera', who is in love with a coal miner. The song begins with the setting of the moon and the opening of the woman's window, symbolizing the start of a new day and perhaps the anticipation of seeing her beloved.

As the miner goes to the mountains, singing with the morning star, there is a sense of routine and the hard life of labor, but also a romantic connection with nature. The repetition of 'Ya viene el dia' (the day is coming) emphasizes the cyclical nature of the miner's work and the woman's wait. The olive groves that light up his face could be a metaphor for the hope and love that brighten up the hardships of their lives. The woman expresses a desire for the miner's love, stating that even though no one has loved him, she does.

The song also touches on the physical and emotional toll of the miner's work. The woman's heart is described as blackened by soot, a metaphor for the pain and sorrow caused by her love for the piconero. The mention of a velvet third-party garment and a ribbon on the hat that reads 'Por ti me muero' (I die for you) adds a touch of romanticism and dedication to their love story. Overall, 'Los Piconeros' is a poignant portrayal of love amidst the backdrop of the toils of the working class.