Makerule
Hugo Candelario
The Resilient Baker: A Tale of Makerule
Hugo Candelario's song 'Makerule' tells the story of Mr. Maru, a baker from Andagoya, affectionately known as Makerule. The song paints a vivid picture of Makerule's life, filled with both personal and professional challenges. The lyrics reveal that Makerule's business suffered due to his generous nature, as he often extended credit to his customers, leading to financial ruin. This aspect of the song highlights the struggles of small business owners who face the dilemma of balancing kindness with financial stability.
The chorus, 'Pongale la mano al pan makerule, Pongale la mano al pan pa’ que sude,' which translates to 'Put your hand on the bread, Makerule, put your hand on the bread so it sweats,' serves as a metaphor for hard work and dedication. It emphasizes the physical labor and effort that Makerule puts into his craft, symbolizing the sweat and toil required to make a living. The repetitive nature of the chorus underscores the relentless and often monotonous nature of manual labor.
Another layer of the song's narrative is the personal turmoil Makerule faces. The lyrics mention that while Makerule is away in Condotó, his wife leaves him for another man. This adds a poignant element to the story, reflecting the personal sacrifices and emotional hardships that often accompany a life of hard work and dedication. Despite these setbacks, Makerule continues to persevere, focusing on his bread-making and deciding not to extend credit anymore, indicating a shift towards self-preservation and resilience.
Hugo Candelario, known for his Afro-Colombian musical style, uses 'Makerule' to weave a tale that resonates with themes of resilience, hard work, and personal sacrifice. The song is a tribute to the unsung heroes who, despite facing numerous challenges, continue to push forward with determination and grit.