Meaning of "Salvador Sanchez" by Sun Kil Moon

In the longer analysis of the lyrics, "Salvador Sanchez" is shown to be a homage to the late Mexican boxer of the same name, as well as other fighters who have met their end in the ring. The lyrics evoke a sense of reverence for these individuals and their impact on the world of boxing. The song acknowledges the immense talent and unrelenting drive of Sanchez, who achieved great success at a young age before tragically dying in a car accident at just 23 years old. He is described as someone who owned the highway with his speed and stood out among the many fighters from Mexico City. Sanchez is compared to a "pure magic matador" and is seen as a legendary figure, with choirs, angels, and ukulele strings playing for his memory.

The lyrics also mention Pancho Villa, a prominent figure in the Mexican Revolution, who is said to have never rested until 1925, the year of his death, when the Manilla stars would rise. This serves as a parallel to Salvador Sanchez and the desire to achieve greatness even at the cost of one's life. The song then shifts to mention another boxer, Benny "Kid" Paret, who reached a certain level of success but was ultimately beaten by a better opponent. This highlights the competitive nature of boxing and the inevitable reality of some fighters falling short despite their efforts.

The final lines of the song bring attention to the countless fighters who have also lost their lives in the ring, named and unnamed. The lyrics question why they have gone, reflecting on their tragic fate. The phrase "fell by leather" refers to the blows suffered in boxing matches, suggesting that these fighters died doing what they loved. The repetition of the line "so alone, all bound together" creates a sense of unity and solidarity among these fallen fighters, as their shared passion and sacrifice connect them, even in death.

Overall, "Salvador Sanchez" pays tribute to legendary boxers and raises contemplation about the price they pay for their craft. The lyrics capture both the glory and the tragedy of these fighters' lives, emphasizing their dedication, courage, and the lasting impact they have on the world of boxing.