what meaning function did
‘Yawar Mayu' blood battles fulfill
fights embodied an appreciation
of complementarity of opposites
fundamental principle in quantum mechanics
results inherently dependent upon devices
employed in each measurement
various agreed upon social bases
in each complementary measurement
men engaged in ceremonial conflicts
bravely facing injury possibility
bravely facing death possibility
being cheered on by their women
fights held for social betterment
of the larger Andean community
purpose balance restoration
encompassed both sides of ritual fight
regeneration blood must be spilt
blood spilt
as an offering
to Pachamama
for the fertility of the fields
in both neighbouring communities
purpose is a communal effort
a conflict to benefit both sides
blood offerings flow to Pachamama
blood had to flow as Pachamama
needs a few drops of devotee blood
communities come together to provide
this offering opponents end in solidarity
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem