De Poncho Blanco

Tabare Etcheverry's song 'De Poncho Blanco' is a poignant tribute to the Uruguayan revolutionary leader Aparicio Saravia, who played a significant role in the country's civil conflicts in the early 20th century. The song opens with a historical reference to the year 1904, marking the end of the last civil war in Uruguay, where the Pacto de la Cruz was betrayed, leading to further bloodshed. The lyrics evoke a sense of loss and betrayal, as men from all directions rally to support their General, only to face the harsh reality that the era of their leadership is coming to an end.

The song's chorus and verses are filled with sorrow and nostalgia, mourning the loss of Saravia, who is symbolized by his iconic white poncho. The imagery of a single bullet ending a battle and the curse upon the memory of the one who pulled the trigger highlights the deep emotional impact of Saravia's death on his followers. The lyrics express a profound sense of directionlessness and despair, as the people no longer have a leader to guide them, and their spirit seems to have died along with Saravia in the Battle of Masoller.

Etcheverry's lyrics also reflect a deep connection to the land and the cultural identity of the gauchos, the rural cowboys of Uruguay. The references to natural elements like the dried-up spring, the silent thrushes, and the white eagle that no longer flies, all serve to underscore the profound sense of loss and the end of an era. The repeated calls to Aparicio, asking where he is, and the belief that his soul has become the sun and his poncho a cloud, convey a sense of eternal reverence and longing for the fallen leader. The song is not just a tribute to Saravia but also a lament for a lost way of life and the enduring spirit of the Uruguayan people.