El Arado

Victor Jara's song 'El Arado' is a poignant tribute to the resilience and hope of the working class, particularly farmers. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the physical and emotional toil of a farmer who has spent years working the land. The repeated imagery of the farmer's hand firmly gripping the plow and the relentless effort of tilling the soil underscores the grueling nature of agricultural labor. The farmer's exhaustion is palpable, yet there is a sense of pride and determination in his work.

The song also beautifully captures the natural environment surrounding the farmer. The references to butterflies flying, crickets singing, and the sun shining brightly create a contrast between the harshness of the labor and the beauty of nature. This juxtaposition highlights the farmer's deep connection to the land and the natural world, despite the physical toll it takes on him. The sweat that creates furrows on his skin mirrors the furrows he creates in the earth, symbolizing the intimate bond between the farmer and the land he cultivates.

Hope is a central theme in 'El Arado.' The farmer's thoughts of 'la otra estrella' (the other star) and the promise that 'la paloma volará' (the dove will fly) reflect a deep-seated belief in a better future. This hope is what sustains him through the hardships, as he firmly holds onto the belief that change will come. The song's closing lines, 'Porque todo cambiará' (Because everything will change), encapsulate this enduring optimism. Victor Jara, known for his socially and politically charged music, uses 'El Arado' to convey a message of perseverance and hope, resonating with the struggles and aspirations of the working class.