Isla Y Piragua

Ali Primera's song "Isla Y Piragua" is a heartfelt tribute to the island of Margarita and its cultural and spiritual significance. The song opens with a plea to the Virgin of the Valley, a revered figure in Venezuelan culture, expressing a desire to participate in her festivities. This sets the tone for a celebration of the island's beauty and the deep connection its people have with their land and traditions. The reference to turning Margarita into a 'peninsula of test tubes' suggests a critique of modernization or industrialization that threatens the island's natural and cultural heritage.

The lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors that highlight the islanders' resilience and independence. The line 'who can navigate never needs a bridge' symbolizes self-sufficiency and the ability to thrive without external aid. This is further emphasized by the depiction of the 'piragua' (a type of boat) dancing on the waves, a metaphor for the islanders' ability to adapt and flourish in their environment. The Virgin's joy at the sight of the piragua underscores the harmony between the people and their faith.

The song also celebrates traditional Venezuelan music and dance forms like the galerón, polo, and malagueña, which are integral to the island's cultural identity. By invoking these elements, Primera underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of change. The repeated assertion that 'who has pearl teeth never needs a bridge' reinforces the idea that the island's natural beauty and cultural richness are sufficient to sustain its people. Through this song, Ali Primera not only pays homage to Margarita but also calls for the preservation of its unique identity and traditions.