Aquí Me Pongo a Cantar
La Asombrosa Excursión De Zamba
The Lament of a Persecuted Gaucho
The song 'Aquí Me Pongo a Cantar' by La Asombrosa Excursión De Zamba is a poignant reflection on the life and struggles of a gaucho, a traditional Argentine cowboy. The lyrics open with the singer expressing a need to sing, using the metaphor of a solitary bird finding solace in its song. This sets the tone for a narrative filled with melancholy and a deep sense of loss.
The gaucho, who is both a father and a husband, recounts his story of being wrongfully persecuted and labeled a bandit. This personal tale is not just about his individual suffering but also serves as a broader commentary on the social and political changes that have disrupted the traditional way of life for many gauchos. The song evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when the gaucho's life was simpler and more fulfilling, marked by the joys of family and the bounty of the land.
The lyrics vividly describe the abundance and simplicity of the past, with references to traditional foods like 'carne con cuero' (meat with hide), 'carbonada' (a type of stew), and 'mazamorra' (a corn-based dish). These images contrast sharply with the present, where destiny has cruelly taken away these pleasures. The song captures the essence of a cultural and personal loss, making it a powerful lament for a bygone era and a critique of the forces that have led to this downfall.