Y Se Llama Perú
Augusto Polo Campos
A Heartfelt Ode to Peru: Celebrating National Pride
“Y Se Llama Perú” by Augusto Polo Campos is a passionate tribute to the nation of Peru, encapsulating the pride and love the artist feels for his homeland. The song opens with vivid imagery of the natural wealth and beauty of Peru, from its bountiful seas to its fertile lands. The lyrics highlight the country's historical struggle for freedom, referencing the breaking of chains of slavery and the enduring spirit of the Inca civilization. This sets the stage for a deep sense of national pride and reverence for the country's heritage and natural resources.
The chorus of the song is a powerful declaration of identity and unity. By spelling out “Perú” with letters that symbolize key aspects of the nation—'P' for patria (homeland), 'E' for ejemplo (example), 'R' for rifle (strength), and 'U' for unión (unity)—the song emphasizes the collective spirit and resilience of the Peruvian people. The repetition of “Yo me llamo Perú” (I call myself Peru) reinforces the personal connection and identification with the nation, suggesting that every Peruvian carries the essence of their country within them.
Augusto Polo Campos, a renowned Peruvian composer, uses this song to weave a narrative that is both personal and universal. The lyrics celebrate the natural and cultural wealth of Peru, from its fishing-rich coasts to its mineral-laden mountains. The song also touches on themes of peace and future prosperity, symbolized by the perpetual snow and the promise of oil. Through this heartfelt ode, Polo Campos not only expresses his own pride but also invites listeners to reflect on their own connection to their homeland, making “Y Se Llama Perú” a timeless anthem of national pride and unity.