De Una Vez

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'De Una Vez' is a poignant and powerful call for social change and justice. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a city that never sleeps, with its lights still on at four in the morning and small, humble places offering distractions. However, beneath this seemingly peaceful facade lies a deeper, more troubling reality. Rodriguez urges the listener not to deny the existence of this hidden paradise, a place where light is a mere streetlamp and dreams are the only form of entertainment. This metaphor highlights the stark contrast between the superficial distractions of the city and the underlying struggles faced by its inhabitants.

The song takes a more serious tone as Rodriguez acknowledges the ongoing struggles and battles being fought elsewhere. He questions the value of the bloodshed and the sacrifices made, asking what could possibly compensate for the lives lost and the time wasted. The repeated refrain, 'De virar esta tierra de una vez' (To turn this land around once and for all), serves as a powerful rallying cry for change. Rodriguez emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues and the need for collective action to transform society.

In the final verses, Rodriguez describes the harsh reality of life under oppressive conditions. The sun at eleven o'clock symbolizes the peak of horror, with slogans and goals demanding their due. The conversations that take place from darkness to darkness reflect the continuous struggle and the need for action. Rodriguez humbly steps back, acknowledging that the words and actions now belong to the people. This act of humility underscores the importance of collective effort and the power of the masses in bringing about meaningful change. 'De Una Vez' is a stirring reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and the need to turn the tide once and for all.