They sent me a letter
in the early morning mail
in this letter they told me
that my brother was in jail
and pitilessly in fetters,
they had dragged him through the street,
yes.
The letter said the reason
Roberto had been arrested
was supporting the strike
that has just been resolved
if indeed this is the reason
then take me to prison too, Sergeant,
yes.
I find myself so far away
desperate for news
this letter comes and tells me
that in my country there is no justice
the hungry ask for bread
the army gives them lead,
yes
In this arrogant fashion
they seek to hang on to their position
and with their fancy fans and frock-coats
without any merit
come and go from church
ignoring the commandments,
yes
We've seen insolence,
barbarity and treachery
pull out the sawn-off shotgun
and murder in cold blood
those who are defenceless
who have both hands empty,
yes
The letter I have received
asks me for a response
I ask that it be made known
to the entire population
that the lion is a killer
in every generation,
yes
Fortunately I have a guitar
to express my sorrow
I also have nine brothers
besides the one who has been imprisoned
the nine are Communists
by the grace of God,
yes