Pastorcita
Kala Marka
A Serenade to the Shepherdess: Love and Heritage in Kalamarka's 'Pastorcita'
The song 'Pastorcita' by Kalamarka is a tender expression of love and admiration, wrapped in the cultural tapestry of the Andean region. The lyrics convey a deep affection for the 'Pastorcita,' which translates to 'little shepherdess,' a term of endearment that suggests innocence and a connection to nature. The repeated lines 'Te quiero mucho' (I love you so much) emphasize the depth of the narrator's feelings, promising to be by her side wherever she or he may go.
The song also touches on themes of destiny and divine intervention, with the lines 'Amar no es crimen ni pecado / Dios te puso en mi camino' (To love is neither a crime nor a sin / God put you in my path). This suggests that their love is pure, fated, and blessed, countering any notion that their affection could be wrong. The phrase 'llenaste de luz mi vida' (you filled my life with light) further illustrates the positive impact the 'Pastorcita' has had on the narrator's life, likening her to a 'linda flor' (beautiful flower), which symbolizes beauty and the blossoming of love.
The cultural elements are prominent in the second verse, where the 'Pastorcita' is described as dancing with pride, inheriting the traits of a goddess, and bringing memories of glorious pasts through her songs. The Andean wind and the scent of the mountains are personified to join in her celebration, suggesting a deep connection with the natural world and the rich heritage of the Andes. The joyous exclamations 'Jei je! Je! Je!' add a festive and communal atmosphere to the song, inviting listeners to share in the celebration of love and cultural pride.