Cuban locals Marlon González and Bela Rivera took to the streets of Havana to challenge young people with popular sayings, only to be surprised by the results.
Out of five young interviewees, just one could correctly complete the saying they were asked about. These sayings, known for their sharp and sententious nature, have their roots in popular culture and are often used for didactic, moral, or even philosophical purposes. They are typically anonymous and are a staple in everyday conversations within the Spanish-speaking community.
However, there is a growing concern that some of these sayings might fade away in Cuba if the younger generation does not incorporate them into their daily language.
Sayings Featured in the Video
Here is the list of sayings shown in the video:
- Quien tiene un amigo tiene un tesoro (He who has a friend has a treasure)
- Árbol que nace torcido, jamás su tronco endereza (A tree that is born crooked never straightens its trunk)
- El que nace para tamal, del cielo le caen hojas (He who is born to be a tamale gets leaves from the sky)
- Donde manda capitán, no manda soldado (Where the captain rules, the soldier does not)
- No hay mal que dure 100 años, ni cuerpo que lo soporte (There is no evil that lasts 100 years, nor a body that can endure it)
- El que por su gusto muere, la muerte le sabe a gloria (He who dies by his own choice finds death to be glorious) - the only one correctly pronounced in the video.
If you are a fan of Cuban culture and love using sayings, feel free to share your favorite one with us in the comments below.
Understanding Cuban Sayings
To shed more light on this interesting cultural aspect, here are some frequently asked questions about Cuban sayings and their significance.
Why are sayings important in Cuban culture?
Sayings are important in Cuban culture as they encapsulate wisdom, values, and experiences passed down through generations. They are a significant part of the oral tradition and are often used to convey morals, advice, and social norms in a concise manner.
What is the concern regarding the use of sayings among young Cubans?
The concern is that if young Cubans do not use these sayings in their everyday language, this rich cultural heritage might be lost over time. The decline in usage can lead to the disappearance of these traditional expressions.