We Tripantu

Cecil González's song "We Tripantu" is a heartfelt tribute to the Mapuche New Year, celebrated on June 24th. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the traditional ceremonies and rituals that mark this significant event. The song opens with the community, referred to as 'peñis' and their leader 'lonco,' preparing for the ancestral celebration. This sets the stage for a night filled with cultural and spiritual activities, emphasizing the deep connection between the Mapuche people and their traditions.

The song highlights the role of the 'machi,' a spiritual leader who sings to 'ngenechén,' the Mapuche deity, accompanied by traditional instruments like the trutruca, pifilka, and kultrún. These elements underscore the sacredness of the night and the importance of music and dance in the celebration. The lyrics also mention 'choique purrun,' a traditional dance, and 'epewun,' a time for storytelling and cleansing of the spirit and body, symbolized by the call of the 'kull kull,' a bird considered sacred in Mapuche culture.

As dawn approaches, the song speaks of the sun's rays heralding a new cycle, bringing harmony and balance with the strength of 'newen,' a concept of spiritual energy. The repeated chorus, "We tripantu, we tripantu, de puelmapu vendrá el sol, que renueve la esperanza en las tierras del ñielol," reinforces the theme of renewal and hope. The song beautifully encapsulates the essence of We Tripantu, celebrating the unity, spirituality, and resilience of the Mapuche people, and their enduring connection to nature and their cultural heritage.