La Tierra Del Olvido

Playing For Change's rendition of 'La Tierra Del Olvido' is a beautiful and emotional tribute to love and the longing for one's homeland. The song, originally by Colombian artist Carlos Vives, is reimagined by Playing For Change, a project known for its mission to connect the world through music. The lyrics are rich with metaphors that evoke the natural beauty of Colombia and the deep emotional ties to both a loved one and the land itself.

The song opens with vivid imagery comparing the beloved to natural elements like the moon, leaves in the wind, and the sun dispelling the cold. These comparisons highlight the essential and life-giving nature of the loved one, suggesting that their presence is as vital and comforting as these natural phenomena. The repeated line, 'Así espero tu regreso a la tierra del olvido,' translates to 'Thus I await your return to the land of oblivion,' indicating a deep yearning for reunion and the hope that the loved one will come back to a place filled with memories and emotional significance.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the emotional impact of the loved one. The lyrics describe how the beloved's gaze, voice, and smile can dispel fears, awaken senses, and stir the soul. This intense emotional connection is further emphasized by the lines, 'Tú tienes la llave de mi corazón' and 'Yo te quiero más que mi vida porque sin tu amor yo me muero,' which translate to 'You have the key to my heart' and 'I love you more than my life because without your love, I die.' These lines underscore the profound dependence on the loved one for emotional and spiritual sustenance.

The song also pays homage to Colombia, describing it as a 'tierra mestiza' (mixed land) and 'tierra hermosa' (beautiful land) filled with seas, mountains, birds, and trees. This celebration of the homeland adds another layer of meaning, suggesting that the love for the person is intertwined with the love for the land. The natural beauty of Colombia serves as a backdrop for the emotional landscape of the song, making it a poignant ode to both personal and national identity.