A Desalambrar

Victor Jara's song "A Desalambrar" is a powerful anthem of land rights and social justice, resonating deeply with themes of communal ownership and resistance against inequality. The lyrics begin with a series of questions that challenge the listener to consider the fairness of land distribution, emphasizing that the land belongs to everyone, not just the wealthy or powerful. Jara's rhetorical questions highlight a collective ownership, suggesting that the fruits of the land should belong to those who work it with their own hands.

The chorus, 'A desalambrar,' which translates to 'to un-fence' or 'to remove fences,' serves as a metaphorical call to action. It urges people to dismantle the physical and symbolic barriers that divide lands and keep the resources in the hands of a few. This refrain is not just a call for physical action but a deeper demand for social change, advocating for a redistribution of land to include everyone, regardless of their social status.

The mention of common names like Pedro, Maria, Juan, and Jose in the song personalizes the message, making it relatable and emphasizing that the issue of land rights affects everyday people. Jara's mention of a gringo or a country's owner as potential critics of his message underscores the conflict between local interests and foreign or elite control. This song, therefore, not only serves as a protest but also as a unifying call to the common people, encouraging them to reclaim their rights and assert their ownership of the land.