América, te hablo de Ernesto

Silvio Rodriguez's song "América, te hablo de Ernesto" is a poignant tribute to Ernesto 'Che' Guevara, a revolutionary figure who left an indelible mark on Latin American history. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that paint a vivid picture of Che's influence and legacy. Rodriguez describes Che as having a 'hand long enough to touch the stars,' symbolizing his far-reaching impact and lofty ideals. The 'pressure of God in his footprint' suggests a divine or fated mission, emphasizing the almost mythic status Che holds in the collective memory of the Americas.

The song continues to depict Che as a 'healer of narrow-minded men,' someone who sought to broaden perspectives and bring about social change. The 'miracle of walking on water' and 'curing the ailments of the soul' are metaphors for the revolutionary's efforts to achieve the seemingly impossible and to heal societal injustices. Rodriguez's use of 'an emissary of dawn' further underscores Che's role as a harbinger of new beginnings and hope.

Despite attempts to bury his legacy, Rodriguez asserts that Che's spirit endures. The 'perfect voice that doesn't need an ear' and the 'song that sounds like a gunshot' signify the enduring power of Che's message, which transcends language and continues to resonate. The imagery of Che's ghost 'well-portrayed in bullets' suggests that his revolutionary spirit lives on in the ongoing struggles for justice and equality. The song is a powerful reminder that Che's ideals and the fight for a better world cannot be easily silenced or forgotten.