Quiero Volver
Aitiden Guanche
Echoes of the Guanche: A Call for Return
The song "Quiero Volver" by Aitiden Guanche is a poignant reflection on the history and struggles of the Guanche people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Canary Islands. The lyrics evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for a time when the Guanche lived peacefully and nobly on their land. The repetition of the phrase "vivió feliz" underscores the harmony and contentment that once characterized their existence before the arrival of Spanish colonizers.
The song vividly recounts the disruption brought by the Spanish invasion, symbolized by the arrival of the "invasor" and the "colonizador." The lyrics describe how the Spanish imposed their rule, bringing with them the cross and the guise of benevolence, which ultimately led to the enslavement and suffering of the Guanche people. This historical narrative is not just a recounting of past events but a call to remember and resist the injustices that have been inflicted upon the Guanche.
Aitiden Guanche's lyrics also serve as a rallying cry for unity and resistance. The mention of the MPAIAC, a political movement advocating for the independence of the Canary Islands, highlights the ongoing struggle for cultural and political autonomy. The song's refrain, "¡Yo guanche soy, quiero volver!" is a powerful declaration of identity and a yearning to return to a state of peace and self-determination. Through its evocative storytelling and emotional depth, "Quiero Volver" captures the enduring spirit of the Guanche people and their quest for justice and freedom.