El Cigarrito

Victor Jara's 'El Cigarrito' is a song that, at first glance, appears to be a simple narrative about smoking a cigarette. However, the lyrics, when examined within the context of Jara's work and the political climate of Chile, may carry deeper meanings. Victor Jara was a prominent Chilean singer-songwriter and theater director, known for his influential role in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement which used music as a form of political expression and social commentary.

The song's lyrics describe the act of making and smoking a cigarette, but the repetition of 'Ay, ay, ay, me querís' suggests a subtext of questioning or seeking affirmation, possibly from society or a lover. The act of smoking, in this context, could be seen as a metaphor for finding warmth and solace in a simple pleasure amidst the coldness of the world or a challenging situation. The mention of throwing away the cigarette butt and leaving it for someone else to pick up could imply a disregard for societal norms or expectations, a subtle act of rebellion.

Given Jara's history as a political artist, 'El Cigarrito' might also be interpreted as a commentary on personal freedom and the small acts of defiance against oppressive circumstances. The song's seemingly mundane subject matter contrasts with the broader themes of resistance and resilience that are often found in Jara's music. The repeated phrase 'Ay, ay, ay, me querís' could be a rhetorical question, highlighting the tension between the individual's desires and the collective's demands.