Ohuihqui Neni Mitz Cocoli
Yaoyotl
The Struggle of Existence in 'Ohuihqui Neni Mitz Cocoli'
Yaoyotl's song 'Ohuihqui Neni Mitz Cocoli' delves deep into the human experience of suffering and existential struggle. The lyrics, written in Nahuatl, an indigenous language of Mexico, evoke a sense of timelessness and universality in the themes they explore. The word 'Tlacocoliztli' translates to 'suffering' or 'affliction,' setting the tone for the entire song. The repeated questioning of 'Tlen Tlacocoliztli?' ('What is suffering?') suggests a search for meaning or understanding in the face of pain and hardship.
The song further explores the idea that suffering is an intrinsic part of the human condition. The lines 'Iuhcayotl mitz cocoli / mo motlailtiani Teotl mitz cocoli' can be interpreted as 'Your way is suffering / your creator, Teotl, makes you suffer.' This suggests a belief that suffering is not only inevitable but also divinely ordained. The use of 'Teotl,' a term for deity in Nahuatl, adds a spiritual dimension to the struggle, implying that it is a test or a necessary part of existence.
The final lines, 'zan tlacocoliztli yectli / inon tlen tehhuatl ti-tlapiqui / AMO,' translate to 'only suffering is good / that which you endure / NO.' This paradoxical statement challenges the listener to reconsider their understanding of suffering. It suggests that through enduring pain, one might find a form of goodness or enlightenment, yet it ends with a stark 'NO,' perhaps indicating the artist's own struggle with accepting this notion. Yaoyotl's use of Nahuatl not only preserves cultural heritage but also adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the exploration of these profound themes.