Nació Mi Poesia
Jorge Oñate
The Heartbeat of Valledupar: Jorge Oñate's Ode to Tradition and Change
Jorge Oñate's "Nació Mi Poesia" is a heartfelt tribute to the Colombian singer's homeland, Valledupar, and its rich cultural tapestry. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the region's natural beauty and the deep-rooted folkloric traditions that have shaped Oñate's artistic expression. The song begins by comparing the dawn in his town to the purity and majesty of his verses, which are as free as the wind and as fleeting as a shooting star in the beautiful night sky. This imagery sets the tone for a song that celebrates the essence of Valledupar and its influence on Oñate's poetry and music.
The chorus of the song reflects on the changes that have taken place in Valledupar, noting the disappearance of traditional bareque houses and local treats, replaced by more modern developments. Despite these changes, Oñate emphasizes that the spirit of the region's folklore endures, much like the indigenous Arhuaco people and the Cesar River, which remain pure and beautiful. The song is a call to remember and preserve the cultural heritage, even as the physical landscape evolves. Oñate invites his beloved, referred to as the wandering swallow, to come and experience the festival of his land, to feel the notes of the accordion, and to understand the immense soul of the singer and the serenading troubadour.
"Nació Mi Poesia" is not just a personal declaration of Oñate's poetic origins; it is also an invitation to experience the joy and beauty of Valledupar's folklore. The repetition of the line 'Nació Mi Poesia' (My poetry was born) in the land of Valledupar serves as a refrain that anchors the song in a sense of place and identity. Through his music, Oñate expresses a longing for the simpler times of his youth while also embracing the inevitable changes that come with progress. The song is a celebration of cultural resilience and the enduring power of music to connect us to our roots.