Nicanor
Gaiteros de Pueblo Santo Lyrics
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Nicanor, un negro fornido de 1.90 salido de las cabernas de Tolú Viejo. Era un
experto en el arte del tramullo y no hubo Pueblo Santino que no callera en las
garras de sus negocios turbios, como la mágica pomada para las arrugas que no
era más que la arcilla de las orillas del rio Muchajagua, mezclada con moñiga
de burro y limoncillo. Lo que no se podía negar era la creatividad que tenía
Nicanor para hacer necesitar lo innecesario, su garganta prodigiosa para el
canto de vaquería y sus puños de pilón, que a más de un moroso hicieron
con su gaita siempre quiso evitar.
The lyrics to "Nicanor" by Gaiteros de Pueblo Santo present a captivating narrative about an intriguing character named Nicanor, whose introduction occurs during a significant event—the novenario of Cristobal. This context establishes a ceremonial atmosphere that typically boasts reverence and familial unity. However, the arrival of Nicanor, described as a robust Black man from Tolú Viejo, suggests a disruption of this serenity. His imposing stature and backstory, which hints at an enigmatic past, adds a layer of complexity. In the eyes of the Pueblo Santinos, Nicanor embodies a blend of charm and menace, as his presence catalyzes a narrative steeped in both admiration and wariness.
Nicanor is characterized as a master of manipulation and deceit, weaving through the communities with his nefarious business ventures. The line about his "magical pomada para las arrugas" (magical cream for wrinkles) cleverly critiques the commodification of beauty through dubious means. The concoction, a mixture of river clay, donkey droppings, and limoncillo, symbolizes false promises and the exploitation of people's desires for youth and attractiveness. Beyond this humorous detailing, it illustrates a broader social commentary on how individuals can prey on the vulnerabilities of others, turning their misfortunes into profit. The lyrics navigate the fine line between humor and derision, showcasing how Nicanor’s charm masks his unethical practices, ultimately leading to the entrapment of unsuspecting patrons in Pueblo Santo.
The portrayal of Nicanor extends beyond mere trickery; he is a multifaceted figure renowned for his atmospheric presence—his "prodigious throat" for traditional vaquería singing and his "fists of white pilón." This description highlights not only his charisma and artistry but also his physicality and capacity for violence. The juxtaposition of creativity and aggression creates a dynamic character whose multifarious talents enable him to maneuver social spaces with both allure and threat. This duality of Nicanor serves to elevate his status within the community; while he is a source of entertainment through music and storytelling, he is also a figure to be respected—or feared—when wronged. His reputation leads to social consequences for those who become embroiled in his dealings.
Lastly, Nicanor is encapsulated as "el hermano del trueno," suggesting a profound connection to force and authority. This moniker reflects a mixture of awe and caution associated with his presence, emphasizing the volatile potential that lies within him. The reference to Cristobal, who sought to avoid such disruption, hints at a broader theme of conflict between tradition and innovation, respectability and vice, or harmony and chaos. In essence, Nicanor becomes a symbol of the complexities of life within Pueblo Santo—where necessity is often warped by invention, and genuine human connection is tangled with practices of manipulation. This exploration of societal dynamics provides a sharp critique of human nature, compelling the listener to contemplate the thin line between savior and sinner in everyday life.
Line by Line Meaning
Fue en el novenario de Cristobal donde todos conocieron a
It was during the nine days of mourning for Cristobal that the community first encountered
Nicanor, un negro fornido de 1.90 salido de las cabernas de Tolú Viejo.
Nicanor, a robust black man towering at 1.90 meters, emerged from the depths of Tolú Viejo.
Era un experto en el arte del tramullo y no hubo Pueblo Santino que no callera en las garras de sus negocios turbios,
He was a master of deception, ensnaring every inhabitant of Pueblo Santo in the web of his dubious dealings,
como la mágica pomada para las arrugas que no era más que la arcilla de las orillas del rio Muchajagua, mezclada con moñiga de burro y limoncillo.
such as the so-called magical cream for wrinkles, which was nothing more than clay from the banks of the Muchajagua River, mixed with donkey dung and a touch of lemon grass.
Lo que no se podía negar era la creatividad que tenía Nicanor para hacer necesitar lo innecesario,
What could not be denied was Nicanor's remarkable ingenuity in convincing others to crave the unnecessary,
su garganta prodigiosa para el canto de vaquería y sus puños de pilón,
his prodigious voice for traditional cowboy songs and his formidable fists,
que a más de un moroso hicieron comer tierra.
which caused more than one debtor to end up tasting the dirt.
El hermano del trueno, como lo llamaban, era lo que Cristobal con su gaita siempre quiso evitar.
He was known as the brother of thunder, a presence that Cristobal with his gaita always sought to evade.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Marlon Peroza
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind