"Caminito De La Obra" is a song by Joan Manuel Serrat, a Spanish singer-songwriter. The lyrics depict the struggles and hardships faced by construction workers, emphasizing the difficult and often thankless nature of their work. The song begins by describing how the worker's future is already predetermined, symbolized by the "chala" (corn husk), which represents poverty and lack of opportunities. The sun's mark with a palette iron signifies the physical toll and harsh conditions they endure. The mention of "trabanqueta" refers to a small stool or support, emphasizing their low social status. The worker starts their day, having breakfast with the "barrecha" (a type of hoe), preparing themselves for a challenging day ahead. They frequent an early morning bar called Casa Antúnez. The "mobilé" symbolizes the tool they rely on for their work. As they ascend to the sky among bricks and mortar, their eyes shed "tears of cement" as they witness their dreams slipping away like fleeting winds. The lyrics suggest that their dreams often wither in the face of adversity. The chorus acknowledges the resilience and perseverance of these workers who toil in the face of difficulty. They long for a brighter future, for the day when their dreams will be realized. The mention of "los elegidos" (the chosen ones) refers to those who will eventually succeed and escape their current circumstances. The song portrays the worker's reality, including their simple pleasures such as sharing a meal in a tupperware container and celebrating with half a bottle of "priorato" (a type of wine). The use of "permanganato" (potassium permanganate) suggests the worker's resourcefulness in using this disinfectant to treat injuries. The worker's respite comes in the form of a siesta, where they dream of taking revenge on their boss or betting on their favorite sports teams. It underscores their desires for some form of justice and minor victories amidst their struggles. The song concludes by reiterating that the future is bleak for these workers. The cycle of poverty, marked by the "chala" and the branding of the sun, continues. The repetition of the opening lines emphasizes their situation remains unchanged. Overall, "Caminito De La Obra" shines a light on the lives of laborers in the construction industry, emphasizing their hardships, dreams, and the relentless obstacles they face. It tells a story of perseverance, resilience, and the longing for a better future.
