"Epitafio para Joaquín Pasos" is a song by Spanish singer-songwriter Joan Manuel Serrat. It is a tribute to the Nicaraguan poet Joaquín Pasos, who was known for his revolutionary poetry that spoke about social issues. The lyrics depict the life of Pasos, who walked the streets without a job or money. He was surrounded by poets, prostitutes, and drug addicts who were familiar with his verses. The song mentions that Pasos never traveled abroad and was jailed at some point in his life. Sadly, he is now dead, and there is no monument to remember him. The song then shifts to a call to remember Pasos in the future when technological advancements like concrete bridges, turbines, tractors, and silver barns are built. It suggests that his poetry purified the language of his people, which will eventually be used to write important documents like trade treaties, constitutions, love letters, and decrees. In summary, "Epitafio para Joaquín Pasos" pays homage to Joaquín Pasos, a marginalized poet whose powerful words resonated with the struggles and aspirations of his people. The song recognizes his contribution to the purification and transformation of the Spanish language through his poetry.
