El Mulitero

Tabare Etcheverry's song "El Mulitero" paints a vivid picture of the life of a mulitero, a person who herds and sells small mules, known as mulitas. The song opens with the protagonist describing his journey to town with eighteen mulitas to sell. These animals are described as beautiful and plump, indicating their value. However, the journey is not easy, as the protagonist mentions his exhaustion, highlighting the physical toll of his work.

The song contrasts the perspectives of the mulitero and his son. For the child, the journey is a playful adventure, a time to frolic and enjoy. In stark contrast, for the mulitero, it is a rare opportunity to earn some money, a task that is both laborious and essential for their survival. This duality underscores the harsh realities of rural life, where even children are involved in the struggle for livelihood.

A significant part of the song involves the practical and somewhat humorous instructions the mulitero gives his son on how to catch a runaway mulita. The detailed and almost ritualistic method of capturing the animal reflects the deep knowledge and skills passed down through generations. The mulitero's empathy is evident when he compares the mulita's pleading gesture to that of a human, yet he is also pragmatic, knowing that his own children are in need and that the mulita must be sold to provide for them.

The song concludes with a mix of humor and resignation, as the mulitero instructs his son to wash his hands in the stream, a simple yet poignant reminder of the everyday realities they face. Through its rich imagery and heartfelt lyrics, "El Mulitero" captures the essence of rural life, the bond between father and son, and the relentless pursuit of survival in a harsh world.