Negrito Bonito
Susana Baca
The Journey of Negrito Bonito: A Tale of Struggle and Hope
Susana Baca's song "Negrito Bonito" tells a poignant story of a young man, referred to as 'negrito bonito,' who leaves his home in search of a better life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his journey, filled with hope, disillusionment, and resilience. The song begins with the protagonist leaving for San Juan, driven by the need to find work and improve his circumstances. He is determined not to return to the backbreaking labor of cutting sugarcane, a metaphor for the grueling and often thankless work that many people endure without understanding the larger purpose behind their struggles.
As the song progresses, the negrito bonito encounters various hardships. He meets a friend, Jacinto, who is also struggling and disillusioned, lying in the street and speaking incoherently about things that cannot be seen. This encounter underscores the pervasive sense of hopelessness and confusion that can accompany the search for a better life. Despite these challenges, the protagonist remains determined not to return to his previous life of labor and hardship.
The narrative takes a turn when a clever individual suggests that life in New York would be better, free from the drudgery of cutting sugarcane. However, upon arriving in New York, the negrito bonito finds himself cold, homeless, and still struggling. The promise of a better life remains unfulfilled, and he is left lamenting his situation. The song ends with a repetition of the refrain, emphasizing the cyclical nature of his struggles and the persistent hope that keeps him moving forward. Susana Baca's soulful delivery and the evocative lyrics combine to create a powerful commentary on the universal quest for a better life and the often harsh realities that accompany it.