En El Tolima*

Atahualpa Yupanqui's song "En El Tolima" is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of sacrifice, danger, and the emotional turmoil of letting go of something deeply cherished. The song is set in the Tolima region, a place known for its rugged terrain and historical conflicts. Yupanqui, a renowned Argentine folk musician and poet, uses his lyrics to paint a vivid picture of a perilous night where the protagonist is forced to abandon his beloved tiple, a traditional string instrument, to ensure his survival.

The song begins with the protagonist recalling the only time he has cried, a silent cry of an indigenous man, as he throws his tiple into the river. This act is not just a physical action but a symbolic gesture of letting go of a part of his identity and passion. The night is described as one of danger, where silence is paramount, and any sound could mean death. The repeated emphasis on the "noche de peligro" (night of danger) underscores the constant threat they face from their enemies.

As the protagonist and his companions move deeper into the forest, the emotional weight of the situation becomes evident. The tiple's final sounds as it hits the rocks and the river symbolize a cry for help, a lament for the lost connection between the musician and his instrument. The protagonist's internal struggle is palpable as he bids farewell to his faithful companion, acknowledging the necessity of his actions while mourning the loss. The song concludes with a hopeful note, suggesting that the broken tiple will find a new voice in the river, blending its song with the natural world, symbolizing resilience and the continuation of life despite adversity.