A La Pasada
Marcelo Miraglia
The Soulful Echoes of the Pampas: Marcelo Miraglia's 'A La Pasada'
Marcelo Miraglia's 'A La Pasada' is a heartfelt ode to the traditions and culture of the Argentine pampas. The song opens with Miraglia expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to share his 'humble canto surero,' a reference to the traditional folk music of the southern regions of Argentina. He emphasizes the authenticity and deep-rooted nature of his music, stating that it was born with him. This sets the tone for a song that is both personal and culturally rich, celebrating the simplicity and sincerity of rural life.
Miraglia's lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and metaphors that paint a picture of the gaucho lifestyle. He likens himself to a bird singing freely from a branch, highlighting his desire to share his music without seeking fame or fortune. This metaphor extends to his view on singing itself, where he stresses that true singing is about the message it conveys, not just the act of making noise. The line 'Una verdad en voz baja que es una mentira gritada' (A truth in a low voice is a shouted lie) underscores the importance of sincerity and substance over superficiality.
The song also touches on themes of humility and authenticity. Miraglia speaks of the importance of knowing one's place and not overstepping bounds, a sentiment that resonates deeply in the gaucho culture. He criticizes those who imitate or boast without understanding the true essence of what they are doing. Instead, he values the pure, unpolished essence of his music, which he describes as being rooted in the culture of 'pulpería y fogones' (taverns and campfires). The song concludes with a promise to return, reinforcing his connection to the land and the people, and leaving the listener with a sense of continuity and tradition.