Hoy mi deber era

Silvio Rodriguez's song 'Hoy mi deber era' delves into the poignant conflict between personal longing and patriotic duty. The lyrics open with the singer acknowledging his obligation to sing for his country, to raise the flag, and to join the collective optimism of a public gathering. This sense of duty is juxtaposed with a deep personal sorrow, as the singer laments the absence of a loved one. The emotional weight of this absence makes it difficult for him to find joy or fulfill his patriotic responsibilities. The imagery of the loved one's hair on his pillow and the inability to fight another battle underscores the depth of his emotional turmoil.

The second verse continues this theme of inner conflict. The singer, who should be singing in unison with others, finds himself hiding from the day and whispering in solitude. He questions his actions and the cruel tricks of his senses, which keep him emotionally tethered to his absent lover. The vivid descriptions of intimate moments, such as the lover's small mouth within his kiss and their bodies entwined in passionate embrace, highlight the intensity of his longing. These personal memories overpower his sense of duty, making it impossible for him to fully engage in the collective patriotic fervor.

In the final verse, the singer reflects on his duty to sing for his country and raise the flag. Despite his emotional struggle, he believes he has perhaps achieved this duty by dreaming of his lover's embrace and imagining flying by their side. This suggests that his personal love and longing have become intertwined with his sense of patriotism, creating a complex emotional landscape where personal and collective identities merge. The song beautifully captures the tension between individual desires and societal expectations, illustrating how deeply personal emotions can influence one's sense of duty and belonging.