Ahora Que El Petróleo Es Nuestro

"Ahora Que El Petróleo Es Nuestro" by Ali Primera is a poignant critique of the socio-economic conditions in Venezuela, despite the country's rich oil resources. The song's title, which translates to "Now That the Oil is Ours," is repeated throughout the lyrics, emphasizing the irony that, despite nationalizing oil, the wealth generated from it has not trickled down to the common people. Primera uses this refrain to highlight the disparity between the nation's potential wealth and the actual living conditions of its citizens.

In the first verse, Primera laments the presence of beggars, the lack of hospitals, and the absence of educational opportunities for young people. This sets the stage for his argument that the oil wealth has not been used to improve the lives of ordinary Venezuelans. Instead, he points out that basic necessities like beans, plantains, and rice have become more expensive, making it harder for people to afford even the simplest of meals. The mention of "carne mechada" (shredded beef) serves as a metaphor for the meager and insufficient benefits that the people receive from the oil wealth.

Primera also criticizes the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the government officials who benefit from the oil industry while the general populace suffers. He sarcastically praises the "sovereignty" that the oil wealth is supposed to bring, questioning its value if it doesn't translate into food and basic needs for the people. The repeated lines about the people working hard to extract and refine the oil, only for others to profit from its sale, underscore the exploitation and injustice felt by the working class.

The song is a powerful call for social justice and equitable distribution of wealth. It reflects the frustration and disillusionment of a population that sees its natural resources being mismanaged and its potential squandered. Ali Primera, known for his socially conscious lyrics and folk music style, uses this song to give voice to the voiceless and to demand a fairer society.