Cerveza, cerveza

Wendy Sulca's 'Cerveza, cerveza' is a song that, on the surface, appears to be a simple ode to drinking beer. However, a closer look at the lyrics reveals a deeper narrative of heartache and the desire to escape from pain. The repetition of the phrase 'Cerveza, cerveza, quiero tomar cerveza,' which translates to 'Beer, beer, I want to drink beer,' underscores the singer's yearning to drown her sorrows in alcohol due to the suffering caused by a departed lover. The song reflects a common human response to emotional distress—seeking solace in temporary escapes.

The request to the bartender, 'Señor cantinero, dame más cerveza,' emphasizes the singer's need for more beer to cope with the 'suffering that is killing' her. The cantina, or bar, becomes a place of refuge where she can forget her troubles, if only for a while. The music, represented by the 'arpita,' a term of endearment for the harp, plays a dual role in her life, accompanying her in both her saddest and happiest moments. This duality suggests that music, like alcohol, is a means of dealing with the ups and downs of life.

Despite the melancholic theme, the song also contains a message of resilience and cultural pride. The lyrics 'seguiré cantando al Perú' translate to 'I will continue singing to Peru,' indicating that the singer finds strength in her national identity and the joy of music. The call to dance, with 'hands up, hands down,' encourages listeners to join in the celebration of life, despite its challenges. The song, therefore, serves as an anthem of perseverance, encouraging people to find joy and solidarity through music and dance.