Ronda dos Paisanos

José Afonso's song 'Ronda dos Paisanos' is a poignant and evocative piece that calls for peace and liberation from military oppression. The lyrics are structured as a series of appeals to various military ranks, from generals to soldiers, urging them to dismiss their sentinels and abandon their posts. This repeated plea symbolizes a broader desire for the end of authoritarian control and the restoration of freedom and tranquility.

The song begins with a call to the general to send away the sentinel at the break of dawn, setting the tone for the rest of the verses. Each subsequent verse addresses a different rank, from brigadier to colonel, captain, lieutenant, sergeant, and finally, the common soldier. This progression highlights the pervasive nature of military presence and the hierarchical structure that sustains it. By urging each rank to dismiss their sentinels, Afonso is advocating for a collective movement towards demilitarization and peace.

The imagery in the song is rich with metaphors. The 'falling of the dawn' and 'gray sky' evoke a sense of new beginnings and the end of a dark period. The 'cold wind' and 'golden sun' symbolize the harshness of military life and the hope for a brighter future, respectively. The repeated refrain 'Mande embora a sentinela' (Send away the sentinel) serves as a powerful mantra for liberation, emphasizing the urgency and importance of this call to action.

José Afonso, a key figure in the Portuguese folk music scene and a prominent voice in the fight against the Estado Novo regime, uses 'Ronda dos Paisanos' to convey a message of resistance and hope. His music often blends traditional folk elements with political activism, making his work both culturally significant and deeply moving. This song, in particular, resonates as a timeless appeal for peace and the dismantling of oppressive structures.