El Bocal

The song 'El Bocal' by Leonel Gomez is a tribute to the gaucho culture, particularly focusing on the relationship between a horseman and his horse. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a 'criollo bagual,' which refers to an untamed horse with a tangled mane, symbolizing the wild and free spirit of the countryside. The 'bocal' mentioned in the song is a type of bridle used in taming horses, representing the connection and mutual respect between the horse and its rider.

The setting described in the song is a traditional one, with the horse tied to a 'palenque' (a post used for tethering horses) near a ranch, while a 'zorzal' (a type of thrush) sings. The process of taming the horse involves patience and skill, leading to the horse's transformation into a 'redomón,' a well-trained horse. The 'domero,' or horse tamer, is portrayed as a figure who embodies the gaucho's way of life, spending his Sundays ('domingueando') visiting the local village.

Leonel Gomez's lyrics are a celebration of the rural lifestyle and the bond between man and horse. The song serves as a metaphor for the gaucho's identity, rooted in tradition and the land. The 'bocal' is not just a tool but a symbol of the transformation and partnership that defines the gaucho's relationship with his horse. The song ends with a sense of pride and respect for this way of life, as the 'domero' offers his heartfelt tribute through these simple verses.