Poco a poco
Damaris
Unraveling the Layers of 'Poco a poco' by Damaris
The song 'Poco a poco' by Damaris is a heartfelt expression of love and the gradual process of falling in love, set against the backdrop of Andean culture. The title, which translates to 'little by little' in English, encapsulates the essence of the song's narrative, where the singer describes how her love interest has slowly come to love and cherish her. The repetition of 'poco a poco' emphasizes the slow and steady development of their relationship. The chorus suggests a transformation, indicating that their love has grown over time, changing the dynamics of their relationship.
The lyrics also touch upon themes of rejection and change. The singer recalls seeing her beloved during the carnival, dressed as a 'cholito,' a term that refers to a man of indigenous Andean heritage. She notes that he was looking at another, deliberately avoiding her gaze, which hints at a sense of betrayal or unrequited love. The singer's pain is evident as she describes her love interest's fickle heart and the stark contrast between the past and the present. The metaphor of a flower without fragrance, wilted in her garden, poignantly conveys the loss of love's vitality and the sadness of a love that has faded.
Damaris, an artist known for her Andean music, often incorporates traditional elements such as the huayno, a genre of popular Andean music, into her songs. 'Poco a poco' is likely no exception, with its references to huayno and the carnival, which are integral parts of Andean culture. The song is not only a narrative of personal emotions but also a celebration of the cultural context in which these emotions unfold.