Como Yo Lo Siento
José Larralde
The Soul of the Land: José Larralde's 'Como Yo Lo Siento'
José Larralde's 'Como Yo Lo Siento' is a poignant reflection on the deep connection between a person and their land, emphasizing the emotional and personal value that cannot be measured by an outsider's perspective. The song's lyrics convey a sense of identity and belonging that the singer has with the land, which is described in terms that are deeply rooted in the natural environment of the Argentine countryside. Larralde uses metaphors such as being a 'cardo' (thistle) of the plains and a 'piedra mora' (black stone) of the hills to express his intrinsic bond with the land, suggesting that he is as much a part of it as the natural elements he describes.
The song also touches on themes of solitude and memory, as seen in the verses about the 'arbolito' (little tree) under which the singer reflects in silence, and the 'tapera' (abandoned house), which stands as a testament to the passage of time and the accumulation of memories. These images evoke a sense of nostalgia and a bittersweet relationship with the past, as the land bears witness to the singer's experiences and losses. The refrain 'No venga a tasarme el campo / Con ojos de forastero' (Don't come to appraise my field / With the eyes of a stranger) reinforces the idea that the true value of the land cannot be quantified or understood by someone who has not lived and felt it as the singer has.
José Larralde is an Argentine folk singer and songwriter known for his powerful lyrics and his ability to capture the essence of rural life and the struggles of the common man. His music often reflects social issues and personal introspection, and 'Como Yo Lo Siento' is a prime example of his artistry in conveying complex emotions through simple yet profound language. The song is a testament to the intimate relationship between people and their land, and the unique perspective that comes from a life lived in close communion with nature.