Surname? What is my surname? Ask the black slave who lived on the large plantation. Ask the iron collar, the branding iron, the whip, the ship’s hold. Ask the dog that doesn’t speak, but bites. And my surname? My surname?
The 10-line question sequence builds a ritualistic, almost religious longing. In English, the repeated “Will it return from…” becomes an incantation. The final line introduces as a possible womb – a powerful, unresolved ending.
Understanding the English translation of "El Apellido" requires looking beyond literal words to grasp the historical weight and emotional depth of Guillén’s verses. The Core Theme of "El Apellido" el apellido nicolas guillen english translation
The Legacy and Meaning of "El Apellido" by Nicolás Guillén: An English Translation and Analysis Direct Answer First
The poem serves as an elegy for the "lost" African names of his ancestors, which were replaced by the Spanish surname of their masters. Surname
The loss of the original African family name due to the brutality of slavery.
For English-speaking readers, students, and literature enthusiasts, understanding this poem requires both an accurate translation and deep historical context. This comprehensive guide provides a complete English translation of "El Apellido," followed by an in-depth analysis of its themes, structure, and cultural impact. The Historical and Cultural Context Ask the iron collar, the branding iron, the
The poem is a masterclass in what Cuban anthropologist Fernando Ortiz termed "transculturation." Guillén does not reject the European aspect of his culture, but he insists on the importance of recognizing the African roots that were forced into silence. The poem becomes a celebration of his mixed heritage—a personal "elegy" that turns into a song of pride. 3. The Significance of Nicolás Guillén
Oiganme, muchachos; que me roben el apellido; que me lo quiten, carajo, como una prenda, como un pañuelo, como un anillo. Ay, mis abuelos se quedaron mudos, se les pudrió la lengua en la boca y no dijeron nada.