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The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Veracruz" by the artist "Warren Zevon"

Contents

Warren Zevon's "Veracruz" tells the story of a man trapped in the turmoil of the 1914 US occupation of Veracruz, Mexico.

The protagonist hears the echoes of conflict ("Woodrow Wilson's guns") and the cries of Maria, symbolizing the suffering of the people. Recognizing the imminent danger, the protagonist's father urges his family to flee west for safety. He mentions Emiliano Zapata, a revolutionary leader, who he believes will shape the country's destiny after the Americans leave.

Despite the danger and the plea to escape, the protagonist makes a vow to return to Veracruz, even if it means facing death. He feels a profound connection to his city, and his fate is intertwined with Veracruz's destiny.

The song is filled with imagery of chaos, violence, and despair. The sounds of war ("Woodrow Wilson's guns") haunt the protagonist, while Maria's cries embody the widespread grief. The protagonist's vow to return to Veracruz, no matter the cost, speaks to his deep-rooted connection to his homeland and his willingness to fight for it, even if it means sacrificing his own life.

I heard Woodrow Wilson's guns,

I heard Maria crying.

Late last night I heard the news,

That Veracruz was dying.

Veracruz was dying.

Someone called Maria's name,

I swear it was my father's voice.

Saying, "If you stay you'll all be slain,

You must leave now — you have no choice.

Take the servants and ride west,

Keep the child close to your chest.

When the American troops withdraw,

Let Zapata take the rest".

I heard Woodrow Wilson's guns.

I heard Maria calling,

Saying, "Veracruz is dying.

And Cuernavaca's falling".

Aquel dia yo jure,

Hacia el puerto volvere.

Aunque el destino cambio mi vida.

En Veracruz morire,

Aquel dia yo jure.

I heard Woodrow Wilson's guns.

I heard them in the harbor,

Saying, "Veracruz is dying".

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