A young Cuban resident in Miami, United States, nostalgically recalled the trade of the knife and scissors sharpener, a profession that, with its distinctive whistle, used to roam the streets of his hometown, Cárdenas, Matanzas, marking the routines of many households. Although it has disappeared today, it remains alive in the memories of those who experienced it.
Christian Arbolaez, the author of this moving story, shared a chronicle on his Facebook profile that reflects the importance and significance of this work in the daily lives of Cuban families.
In her post, she recounts how her grandmother waited patiently and anxiously for that unmistakable sound that filled the streets: the whistle of the grinder, as for her, it was an almost ceremonial ritual that brought the whole household to life.
“If you hear him, let me know quickly,” her grandmother said, as she prepared to intercept the sharpener with the scissors and knives that needed to regain their edge.
Arbolaez's description transports the reader to those Saturday mornings when the sun gilded the sidewalks of Cárdenas and the day was just beginning.
In his narrative, he describes how the knife grinder, with his bicycle or work apparatus, provided a unique spectacle: spinning the wheel, creating sparks, and breathing new life into household tools.
The young man also reflects on the family legacy that accompanied this trade: “That whistle is the same as always,” his grandmother used to say, suggesting that the grinder had inherited both his skill and his tool from previous generations.
However, as Arbolaez notes, that tradition seems to have faded in today's Cuba: “There is no longer anyone walking the streets sharpening knives or repairing scissors, and tools, like memories, wear away irreparably.”
Although he now lives far away, he confesses that every time he thinks of those Saturdays with his grandmother, he feels that, at least in his memory, that whistle still echoes.
Christian Arbolaez's chronicle not only evokes nostalgia for a lost craft but also invites reflection on the small traditions that once gave meaning to daily life and are now fading away with time.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tradition of the Grinder in Matanzas and Cuban Nostalgia
What did the profession of the grindstone worker represent in Matanzas?
The profession of the sharpener was a fundamental part of daily life in Matanzas. The sound of the sharpener's whistle announced his arrival, prompting families to eagerly gather their knives and scissors for sharpening. It was a ritual that fostered a sense of community and family connection.
Why has this tradition disappeared in Cuba?
Christian Arbolaez's chronicle indicates that the tradition of the sharpener has faded in today's Cuba due to social and economic changes. Sharpening tools have become less common, and new generations no longer rely on this trade in their daily lives.
How is the nostalgia for Cuban traditions kept alive abroad?
Many Cubans abroad, like Christian Arbolaez, keep the nostalgia for their traditions alive through shared memories on social media. Activities such as flying kites in Miami or cooking traditional dishes help recreate a sense of belonging and connection to their roots.
What impact does emigration have on the preservation of Cuban traditions?
Emigration can be a challenge for the preservation of traditions, but it can also be a means of keeping them alive in exile. Cuban emigrants often adapt to new cultures while striving to maintain and share their customs, such as cooking traditional dishes or celebrating festivals unique to the island.
How is nostalgia reflected in the Cuban community abroad?
Nostalgia is a common feeling among Cubans abroad, who often fondly remember their experiences on the island. Moments like cooking a pumpkin or recalling iconic places such as the Mirador de Bacunayagua create an emotional connection to their homeland, despite the distance.
Filed under: