La primera palabra

Horacio Ferrer's 'La primera palabra' is a profound and evocative piece that delves into themes of birth, identity, and revolution. The song is a poetic journey through the metaphorical birth of a voice that seeks to embody the spirit and struggles of Latin America. Ferrer uses rich imagery and cultural references to convey a deep connection to the land and its history, portraying the speaker as a nascent force ready to emerge and make an impact.

The lyrics begin with the speaker addressing 'Madre tierra' (Mother Earth), expressing a desire to be born from her 'placenta' and 'carne' (flesh). This imagery suggests a deep, almost primal connection to the earth and its nurturing qualities. The speaker seeks to be the 'first word' among all the words of the land, symbolizing a new beginning or a fresh voice that carries the weight of the continent's history and aspirations. The reference to 'un toro de seis cuerdas' (a bull of six strings) likely alludes to the guitar, an instrument deeply embedded in Latin American culture, symbolizing the power of music and poetry in shaping identity and resistance.

Ferrer's invocation of figures like Yupanqui and Guillén, along with the mention of Neruda and Gardel, situates the song within a rich tradition of Latin American artistic and revolutionary expression. These references highlight the interconnectedness of music, poetry, and social movements in the region. The repeated plea to 'América' to 'parime bien' (birth me well) and 'gritame bien' (shout me well) underscores the speaker's desire to be a voice that resonates with the struggles and hopes of the people. The imagery of 'los pájaros de la revolución' (the birds of the revolution) waiting for the 'letra y la tonada de tu fe' (the lyrics and melody of your faith) further emphasizes the anticipation of a new era of change and empowerment.

The song concludes with a reaffirmation of the speaker's commitment to this cause, despite the lack of material wealth ('sin plata para cuna') and the urgency of their mission ('tengo apuro de nacer'). The mention of 'las voces casi una de Neruda y de Gardel' (the almost united voices of Neruda and Gardel) signifies the blending of poetic and musical traditions in the quest for a unified, powerful expression of Latin American identity and resistance. Ferrer's 'La primera palabra' is a call to action, a celebration of cultural heritage, and a testament to the enduring power of art in the face of adversity.