La Ruana

Garzón y Collazos' song 'La Ruana' is a heartfelt tribute to the traditional Colombian garment known as the ruana. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the ruana's significance, both as a practical piece of clothing and as a symbol of cultural heritage. The song begins by describing the transformation of an old nobleman's cape into a ruana, highlighting the garment's humble yet noble origins. The ruana is depicted as a unifying element, blurring the lines between the castle and the cabin, and serving as a foundational piece in the creation of new communities alongside the tiple (a traditional Colombian string instrument) and the axe. This imagery underscores the ruana's role in the everyday lives of Colombians, from the mountains to the villages.

The chorus emphasizes the ruana's multifaceted nature, describing it as a 'macho macho' coat, a cradle blanket for the 'paisa' (people from the Antioquia region), and a faithful shadow of the ancestors. It is portrayed as a national treasure, embodying the warmth and comfort of home and family. The ruana's four corners are said to shout the embrace of the garment, symbolizing the protective and nurturing qualities it offers. This metaphorical embrace extends beyond physical warmth, suggesting a deeper emotional and cultural connection.

In the final verse, the singer reflects on their noble ancestry, linking the ruana to both the legendary Don Quixote and the indigenous Quimbaya people. This connection is further solidified by the creation of an Antioquian ruana from a Castilian cape, symbolizing a blend of Spanish and indigenous heritage. The act of embracing the ruana and feeling its embrace in return is described as a soul-warming experience, highlighting the garment's profound emotional significance. Through 'La Ruana,' Garzón y Collazos celebrate the ruana as a cherished symbol of Colombian identity, heritage, and the enduring bond between past and present.