Pio Tequiche

Ali Primera's song "Pio Tequiche" is a poignant reflection on the cultural and social changes affecting Margarita, an island in Venezuela. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references that paint a picture of a community grappling with modernization and the loss of its traditional values and way of life. The song opens with a reference to the Virgin Mary, suggesting that true devotion is not just about material offerings but about genuine effort and sacrifice, symbolized by the early morning fishing trips.

The imagery of the lagoon losing its herons and the sardines being eaten by sharks serves as a metaphor for the environmental degradation and the exploitation of the local community by more powerful external forces. The mention of people no longer visiting the local landmarks and instead seeking things from outside reflects a loss of cultural identity and pride. The song also touches on the commercialization of the island, criticizing the influx of duty-free shops and the zoning of land for commercial purposes, which the artist sees as a betrayal of the island's true spirit.

The refrain "No despiertes, pío tequiche" (Don't wake up, Pio Tequiche) is a call to preserve the old ways and resist the changes that are eroding the community's essence. The mention of empanadas de cazón, a traditional dish, further emphasizes the loss of cultural heritage. Ali Primera, known for his socially conscious lyrics and folk-inspired music, uses this song to mourn the loss of a simpler, more authentic way of life and to criticize the forces of globalization and commercialization that threaten it. The song is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the dangers of losing one's identity in the face of external pressures.