The Power of Hard Work: The Story Behind the Mexican Corrido ‘Qué Días de Septiembre’
For those of you who enjoy a good Mexican corrido, you may be familiar with the tune of 'Qué Días de Septiembre.' This song tells the story of a worker named Patricio Vásquez, whose journey from being mocked by his peers to becoming a successful builder is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we will delve into the lyrics and the underlying message of the song, discuss its cultural significance, and explore how the story can be an inspiration for anyone looking to achieve success through hard work.
Origins and Lyrics
‘Qué Días de Septiembre’ is a traditional Mexican corrido, a genre of folkloric narrative song. The lyrics tell the story of a ranch that needs a stone wall built to protect its land. The song focuses on Patricio Vásquez, a worker who shows up early to start the job. Despite being mocked by his colleagues, he and his brother Ricardo work diligently, proving their worth through hard work and determination.
Lyrics Translation
Un 26 de Septiembre / un gran rancho se empezaba. (On the 26th of September / a great ranch was being established)
Se citó a toda la gente / que por ahí trabajaba / pa' hacer un muro de piedra / protegiendo esas hectáreas. (Every worker from the area / was summoned / to build a stone wall / to protect that expanse)
Miles de maestros llegaron / disputándose el trabajo. (Thousand of masons arrived / fighting for the job)
Cada uno tenía un tramo / de la colina hacia abajo / y seguía llegando gente / pa' ganarse su destajo. (Each one had to work on a section / from the hill and down the slope / and more people kept arriving / to obtain some of the work)
Cuando Patricio llegó / muchos ahí se burlaban. En dónde está tu maestro / es lo que le preguntaban. (When Patricio arrived / many there mocked him: “Where is your master” / is what they asked him)
él en silencio pasó / empuando su cuchara. (He moved on in silence / wielding his trowel)
Antes de empezar habló / con su hermano Ricardo: No hagas caso a lo que dicen / y tampoco te desgastes. / Que nuestro trabajo hable / de lo que somos los Vásquez. (Before starting he spoke / to his brother Ricardo: “Don’t mind what they say / and don’t get bothered either. / Let our work speak / for what the Vasquez are worth.”)
Empezaron con los muros / muy pronto lo terminaron. / Y fueron por el segundo / tampoco ahí se atoraron. (They began building the walls / sp and they finished very quickly. / They went for the second one / without any delay either)
Terminando el tercero / fue que los demás voltearon. / El ingeniero asombrado / fue y habló con Patricio: Eres un maestro muy bueno / a todos has demostrado. / Te has ganado este trabajo / ahora eres el encargado. (On finishing the third one / the others turned around. / The engineer astonished / went to speak with Patricio: “You are an excellent mason / as you have shown everyone. / You’ve earned this job / now you are the foreman.”)
Fue trabajando muy duro / y sacando buen destajo / se puede cumplir sus gustos / anda en su cuatro por cuatro. (It was through hard work / and very long hours / that his wishes were fulfilled / and now he drives an SUV)
Y los que un día se burlaban / ahora le piden trabajo. (And those who once mocked him / now come to him looking for work)
Y aquí se acaba el corrido / del maestro Patricio Vasquez / que a base de un gran esfuerzo / logró salir adelante. (And here ends the corrido / of the master Patricio Vasquez / who through a great effort / managed to get ahead)
Nunca le falta el trabajo / a el ni a sus carnales. (Now he never lacks work / and neither do his brothers)
The Cultural Significance
The corrido is a significant part of Mexican culture, often serving as a form of social commentary and storytelling. ‘Qué Días de Septiembre’ captures the essence of the Mexican work ethic and the importance of perseverance and determination. The story of Patricio and Ricardo symbolizes the spirit of working-class Mexicans who make their way through life by hard work and resilience.
Lessons from the Song
This corrido teaches several valuable lessons: Hard Work Pays Off: The essence of the story is that hard work and dedication lead to success. Patricio and Ricardo’s determination to prove themselves earned them the respect and recognition of their peers and superiors. Resilience: Their ability to keep pushing forward despite mocking and skepticism is a lesson in resilience. Patricio’s silence and his brother’s words of encouragement embody the strength needed to overcome adversity. Teamwork: The brothers work together, supporting each other through challenges, which underscores the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Determination: Despite the initial skepticism, Patricio and Ricardo remained determined and focused on their goal, never wavering in their commitment to their work.
The Lasting Inspiration
The story of Patricio Vásquez resonates with people from all walks of life. Whether you are a construction worker, an entrepreneur, or a professional in any field, the message of the corrido is universally applicable. It serves as a reminder that no matter the obstacles, hard work, determination, and perseverance can lead to success and prosperity.
Conclusion: ‘Qué Días de Septiembre’ is more than just a corrido. It is a testament to the virtues of hard work and determination. As you listen to the song, let Patricio and Ricardo’s story inspire you to pursue your dreams with unwavering dedication. Embrace your challenges and know that with hard work, change is possible.