El lazo

Victor Jara's song 'El lazo' is a poignant tribute to the working class, particularly those who labor in rural settings. The song opens with the imagery of the setting sun, symbolizing the twilight of a man's life. The narrator finds an old man in a humble, shadowy ranch in Lonquén, a place that represents the struggles and resilience of the poor. This setting immediately sets a somber yet respectful tone, highlighting the man's enduring spirit despite his age and circumstances.

The lyrics delve into the man's hands, which, though old, remain strong and capable. These hands are described as both rough and tender, reflecting the duality of his life—hardened by labor yet gentle in their craftsmanship. The lazo, or lasso, becomes a central metaphor in the song, likened to a serpent that coils around a walnut tree. Each lasso he creates carries the imprint of his life and sustenance, symbolizing the intertwining of his existence with his work.

As the song progresses, it touches on themes of time and unacknowledged labor. The old man's hands hold the weight of years, and his dimmed eyes reflect a life of unending toil. Despite his age, no one has told him to rest, underscoring the relentless demands placed on the working class. The shadows of evening, described as lassoing the last light of day, mirror the man's own life, which is slowly being overtaken by darkness. Yet, even in this twilight, he weaves verses to bind joy, showing his undying spirit.

The song concludes with a reflection on the man's legacy. His lassos have traversed vast distances, yet he could never explain the journey of his life. His essence remains in the lassos tied to the walnut tree, and even in death, he will be lassoed by it. The final verses suggest that the firmness of the lasso will grant him eternal rest, as he continues to lasso in some celestial field. 'El lazo' is a moving homage to the dignity, resilience, and unacknowledged contributions of the working class, encapsulated in the life of one old man in Lonquén.