Clandestino
Adriana Calcanhotto Lyrics

The lyrics of Adriana Calcanhotto's song Clandestino describe the experience of an individual who is a fugitive or undocumented immigrant, living life on the run from the law. The use of the word "clandestino" to refer to themselves suggests that this person is living in the shadows, without the legal documentation required to exist within society. They are forced to run and evade the law enforcers in order to survive. The lines "Solo voy con mi pena, sola va mi condena" can be translated to "I only travel with my pain, I travel alone with my sentence". These lines signify the loneliness and struggle that this person faces while living a life of constant running and hiding. The song draws attention to the challenges and injustices faced by undocumented immigrants, particularly those who are forced to flee their homes due to difficult economic or political circumstances.

The lyrics also introduce us to other characters who share the same plight: "yo soy el quebra ley, Mano negra clandestino, Peruano clandestino, Africano clandestino, Marijuana ilegal" which means "I am the lawbreaker, black hand clandestine, Peruvian clandestine, African clandestine, illegal marijuana". These characters are likewise living in defiance of the law and are part of the same marginalized group as the singer. By including these characters, the song unites those who are living on the fringes of society, seeking out a better life, and provides a sense of hope that they are not alone in their struggles.