Tierrita poca

Alfredo Zitarrosa's song 'Tierrita poca' is a poignant reflection on the intimate and often painful relationship between a farmer and his land. The lyrics, written in a valseado rhythm, evoke a deep sense of connection and shared suffering between the man and the 'tierrita' (little land). The land is described as 'pobre y sufrida' (poor and suffering), mirroring the hardships faced by the farmer. This mutual wear and tear is symbolized by the 'surco' (furrow) that burns both the land and the man, indicating the physical and emotional toll of agricultural labor.

The song uses rich metaphors to convey the struggles of rural life. The land is personified as a companion, almost like a spouse, who endures the same hardships as the farmer. The 'yuyos' (weeds) and 'abrojales y espinas' (burrs and thorns) represent the obstacles and pains that come with poverty. The imagery of the land 'escurriste de a poco por la bajada' (slipping away little by little down the slope) suggests a gradual decline, both of the land's fertility and the farmer's vitality. This decline is further emphasized by the line 'mis años perdidos son tus heridas' (my lost years are your wounds), highlighting the deep, almost symbiotic relationship between the man and his land.

Zitarrosa's portrayal of the land as 'humilde, arisca y dulce' (humble, wild, and sweet) adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Despite the hardships, there is a sense of affection and respect for the land. The land is not just a source of sustenance but also a silent witness to the farmer's life, sharing in both his joys and sorrows. This duality of hardship and affection is a recurring theme in Zitarrosa's work, reflecting his deep connection to the rural landscapes of Uruguay and the lives of those who inhabit them.