Duerme, Duerme, Negrito

The song 'Duerme, Duerme, Negrito' by Quilapayún is a poignant lullaby that juxtaposes the soothing act of putting a child to sleep with the harsh realities of a mother's laborious life. The repeated refrain 'Duerme, duerme, negrito' (Sleep, sleep, little black child) serves as a comforting mantra, while the verses reveal the mother's sacrifices and the socio-economic struggles she endures.

The lyrics describe a mother working tirelessly in the fields, promising to bring back food and other necessities for her child. This promise is a metaphor for the hope and love that drive her to endure such hardships. The mention of 'codornices' (quails) and 'carne de cerdo' (pork) symbolizes the basic needs she strives to fulfill despite her grueling labor. The song also introduces a darker element with the 'diablo blanco' (white devil), a metaphor for the oppressive forces that threaten their well-being, adding a layer of urgency and fear to the lullaby.

Quilapayún, a Chilean folk music group known for their politically charged songs, uses this lullaby to highlight the exploitation and suffering of the working class, particularly within marginalized communities. The mother's cough and mourning attire ('va tosiendo' and 'va de luto') signify the physical and emotional toll of her labor. The repetition of 'trabajando sí' (working, yes) underscores the relentless nature of her work and the lack of fair compensation ('no le pagan'). This song is not just a lullaby but a powerful commentary on social injustice, resilience, and the enduring hope for a better future.