Oiga Pues M'hijita

Victor Jara's song 'Oiga Pues M'hijita' is a vivid portrayal of the everyday life and struggles of a working-class man. The song opens with a celebration of various holidays and moments of respite, such as 'San Lunes' (a colloquial term for taking Monday off) and 'Semana Santa' (Holy Week). These references highlight the importance of small joys and breaks in the life of someone who works hard. The mention of 'chacolí,' a type of wine, and the camaraderie with friends like Juan 'el pillo' and José, further emphasize the value of community and shared experiences in alleviating the hardships of daily life.

The song then shifts to the theme of marriage and family responsibilities. The narrator addresses his wife, affectionately calling her 'm'hijita' and 'perrita,' and acknowledges the shared duties in their marriage. He admits that some tasks are meant to be done together, and he expresses a sense of duty towards his family, giving all his earnings to support them. This part of the song reflects the traditional gender roles and expectations within a marriage, where the man is the breadwinner and the woman takes care of the household and children.

In the latter part of the song, the narrator reflects on his own struggles with finding work and the sense of isolation that comes with it. He mentions his friends finding jobs and feeling left behind, which adds a layer of melancholy to the song. Despite this, he remains hopeful and determined to make an effort ('hacerle un empeñito') to improve his situation. The song ends on a note of resilience and optimism, as the narrator contemplates trying something new and finding satisfaction in small achievements.

'Oiga Pues M'hijita' is a poignant and relatable depiction of the everyday challenges and small victories in the life of a working-class individual. Through its rich imagery and heartfelt lyrics, Victor Jara captures the essence of resilience, community, and the enduring human spirit.