Therefore, the literal English translation of Nicolás is It became widely popular throughout Christendom due to the veneration of Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity. Guillén: The Primary Surname
An effective English translation of “El apellido” must preserve:
Because his name is a "proper noun" representing a historical figure, translators rarely change "Nicolás" to "Nicholas" in academic or literary texts. Keeping the Spanish spelling preserves his cultural identity and his connection to the Spanish-speaking world. Translating the Name in Genealogical Contexts el apellido nicolas guillen english translation
"Do they know my name, a name clean / of blemishes and chains?"
This story is a prose adaptation by Guillén of the themes in his famous poem "El apellido" (from the collection El son entero , 1947), where he explores the loss of African identity and surnames due to slavery. The version above reflects Guillén's narrative style and central message. Therefore, the literal English translation of Nicolás is
He stood up and continued walking slowly down the street, asking the wind for a name it would never give him.
Do you need a of the entire poem? Share public link Translating the Name in Genealogical Contexts "Do they
Look at the line: "with a branding iron in hand / with an iron on the nape of their necks." Enslaved people were literally branded like cattle. Guillén argues that the branding iron replaced the surname. The slave owner’s last name (Guillén, López, Fernández) was the brand. The true African name was the one burned away.
In Spanish, el apellido means "the surname" or "the last name." In the context of Guillén’s work, the title carries a profound historical weight.
In English-speaking genealogies, Guillén corresponds to surnames like , Williamson , or simply William . Etymological Evolution