I think that this song is a story told by a friend. It is about Elias, a father who works hard to provide for his family, and how although he won't be remembered his "blood, sweat, and tears" can be shown through his children named Honest and Manuel. He labored in the sugar can fields under the sun but his children will go to school and have a job that pays well. I think the friend is more like an aquaintance who has been effected by Elias and I think he is saying that if Elias can be strong for his family, he can be strong for Elias and although he won't be there when he dies they'll meet in the end.
I think that this song is a story told by a friend. It is about Elias, a father who works hard to provide for his family, and how although he won't be remembered his "blood, sweat, and tears" can be shown through his children named Honest and Manuel. He labored in the sugar can fields under the sun but his children will go to school and have a job that pays well. I think the friend is more like an aquaintance who has been effected by Elias and I think he is saying that if Elias can be strong for his family, he can be strong for Elias and although he won't be there when he dies they'll meet in the end.