La Muralla

Quilapayún's 'La Muralla' is a song that resonates with the themes of unity and inclusivity, set against the backdrop of division and exclusion. The lyrics call for the collective effort of people, regardless of race, to build a metaphorical wall that serves not to divide, but to protect and include. The repeated lines asking for 'all hands,' both black and white, emphasize the importance of solidarity and cooperation in creating a society that is safe and welcoming for all.

The song uses the imagery of a wall, traditionally seen as a symbol of division, and subverts it to represent a collective defense against the forces of hatred and violence. The 'tun, tun' sections of the song act as a call-and-response, where the decision to open or close the wall is based on the nature of what is outside—symbols of beauty and peace are welcomed, while symbols of harm and destruction are kept out. This selective permeability of the wall serves as a metaphor for the discernment a society must have in embracing positive influences and rejecting harmful ones.

Quilapayún, a group known for their Nueva Canción Chilena music, which often contains strong political and social commentary, delivers a powerful message through 'La Muralla.' The song's call for unity and its vision of a world where differences are celebrated and not used to separate us is a timeless reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of building bridges instead of walls.