The Cuban musician and content creator, Alfredo Barban (@alfiebarver), ignited Instagram after sharing a video in which he reflects on the meaning of the word "asere," an expression that has transcended generations and borders.
"Asere is a word that identifies my neighborhood," he says at the beginning of his video, emphasizing that its use does not distinguish between social classes or regions in Cuba, because "even the most refined in the neighborhood say asere."
For him, more than just a word, "asere" represents a way of being, a feeling that unites Cubans regardless of where they are.
"I believe that now it is heard all over the world," says the influencer, highlighting how this expression has traveled with the Cuban diaspora. "And wherever I go, there is a fellow countryman or warrior fighting, pushing forward, and starting from scratch. Because that’s what the aseres do, which I know to be true."
The word asere has sparked debates at various stages. At one point, the focus was on its contradictions with the definition from the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE), which recognizes it as "close friend, inseparable companion."
However, many Cubans do not identify with this interpretation, as it does not always imply camaraderie; rather, it depends on the tone and context in which it is used.
In addition to the meaning, another point of discussion has often been the spelling. While the majority in Cuba write it with "s," some suggest that it may have originally been spelled with "c," leading to even more confusion.
For Alfie, "asere" is an expression that represents the struggle, resilience, and brotherhood of the Cuban people. "A true asere does not live off the suffering of a country."
"Asere is a feeling, asere is a nation. Asere is the Cubans, but the ones from the heart, those who have a thousand problems without any solution, those who see freedom from the other side of the seawall."
Beyond definitions, "asere" is a symbol of Cuban identity, a word that encapsulates history, nostalgia, and a sense of belonging to a community.
Alfie, former lead singer of Qva Libre, has found a platform in the digital realm to showcase his art and connect with his audience. He has nearly 90,000 followers on Instagram and over 100,000 subscribers on YouTube.
He merges traditional genres with contemporary sounds, influenced by his musical training. He participated in the albums Funckimba and Psicodélicamente, collaborating with artists like Descemer Bueno. His foray into social media became a key tool for sharing his vision and reflecting the reality of many Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Meaning and Identity of "asere" in Cuban Culture
What does "asere" mean in Cuban culture?
"Asere" is an expression that represents the identity, struggle, and brotherhood of the Cuban people. Although the RAE defines it as "close friend, inseparable companion," in Cuba its meaning can vary depending on the context, serving as a symbol of cultural identity that unites Cubans around the world.
Why has the word "asere" sparked debate about its meaning and spelling?
The debate over "asere" arises from the differences between its popular use in Cuba and its formal definition in the RAE. Additionally, there is confusion regarding its spelling, as while most write it with "s", some suggest that it was originally spelled with "c". This reflects the richness and diversity of the Cuban colloquial language.
How has the word "asere" influenced the Cuban diaspora?
"Asere" has traveled with the Cuban diaspora, becoming a universal term that connects Cubans around the world. It is an expression of belonging that reflects the resilience and spirit of those who have had to start anew far from their homeland.
What does "asere" symbolize beyond its literal meaning?
"Asere" symbolizes the struggle, the resistance, and the brotherhood of the Cuban people. It is a feeling that goes beyond words and encapsulates the history, nostalgia, and belonging to a community united by culture and shared experiences.
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