Mariana Montalvo is from the generation of Chilean nueva canción singer/songwriters who were inspired by the great Victor Jara and Violeta Parra. The song, "Credo," from her album "Piel de aceituna" ("Olive Skin"), is a haunting yet hopeful prayer that reflects what is transpiring in her homeland. The English translation:
I believe in my heart, branch of aromas / That my Lord like a shadow stirs / Perfuming all life with love / And making it blessed / I believe in my heart he who asks / Nothing because he is capable of the highest dreams / And embraces that created in the dream / Immense master
I believe in my heart that when he sings / He delves deep into the God of the wounded side / To rise from the pool alive, new born
I believe in my heart he who I press / To colour the canvas of life / With red or pallor and that he has made / Vestals shine / I believe in my heart he when sowing / Along the furrow without end was made great / I believe in my heart, always pouring out / But never emptied
I believe in my heart that when he sings / He delves deep into the God of the wounded side / To rise from the pool alive, new born / I believe in my heart that the worm / Has no bite, as it would harm death / I believe in my heart, he reclined / On the breast of God terrible and strong / On the breast of God terrible and strong.
This one is dedicated to my friend Javier Aguilar, whose mother and two sisters live in Santiago.
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