Lo Único Que Tengo

Victor Jara's 'Lo Único Que Tengo' is a song that encapsulates the essence of human resilience and the value of self-worth in the face of adversity. The lyrics, sung in Spanish, convey a deep sense of personal identity and belonging that is not tied to material possessions or a fixed abode. Jara, a prominent figure in the Nueva Canción movement in Chile, was known for his songs that spoke to the struggles and hopes of the working class and the oppressed.

The song's opening lines express a sense of wonder and perhaps resignation at the singer's life circumstances, which lack a permanent home or a sense of place 'en la tierra' (on the earth). However, the chorus reveals a powerful declaration of self-reliance: the singer's hands are all he possesses, yet they are everything to him—his love and his livelihood. This metaphor emphasizes the dignity found in labor and the human capacity to love and create, regardless of material wealth.

The absence of a home and the distance from his parents, who are metaphorically 'más lejos de este barrial que una estrella' (further from this neighborhood than a star), highlight themes of displacement and longing. Yet, the mention of falling in love, despite these circumstances, adds a layer of complexity to the song. It suggests that emotional richness and the ability to form deep connections are not hindered by external conditions. Jara's lyrics are a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who find strength and purpose within themselves, even when the world offers them little.