Carreton

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Carreton' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, the burdens of labor, and the sacrifices made by previous generations. The song opens with a nostalgic recollection of childhood games, where a simple cart ('carreton') becomes a symbol of innocence and imagination. This imagery quickly shifts to a more somber tone as the cart transforms into a heavy, rusted vehicle, representing the hard labor endured by the singer's older siblings and father. The cart, once a toy, now carries the weight of familial responsibilities and economic hardship.

The lyrics delve deeper into the personal history of the singer's family, particularly focusing on the father figure. The father is depicted as a silent, weary man, returning home each day with the physical and emotional toll of his labor evident. The mention of 'Calle San Juan' and the 'grava' (gravel) serves as a metaphor for the rough and challenging path the family has traversed. The father's efforts to provide for his family, despite the meager returns, are portrayed with a sense of deep respect and sorrow.

In the final verses, Rodriguez reflects on the enduring strength and resilience of his father, even in death. The father's hands, once strong and capable, are remembered with a sense of triumph over time. The song concludes with a heartfelt wish to have the father present in the current day, a time when the fruits of his labor are more apparent. The 'carretones de sueños' (carts of dreams) symbolize the aspirations and hopes carried forward by the new generation, built upon the sacrifices of the past. 'Carreton' is a touching tribute to familial love, the dignity of labor, and the enduring legacy of those who came before us.