El barco fantasma

Ángel Parra's song "El barco fantasma" ("The Ghost Ship") is a poignant narrative that intertwines themes of struggle, solidarity, and the exploitation of resources. The song tells the story of a ghost ship that sets sail from the southernmost part of the world, carrying the labor and strength of a nascent people, symbolized by red metal, likely referring to copper, a significant resource in Chile. The ship's journey is fraught with challenges, including storms and pirates, representing the obstacles and adversaries that seek to exploit and hinder the progress of the working class.

The lyrics evoke a sense of frustration and helplessness as the narrator watches the ship struggle against these forces. The mention of Vietnam highlights the global context of exploitation and resistance, drawing a parallel between the struggles of the Chilean people and those in other parts of the world. This connection underscores the universal nature of the proletarian struggle against oppression and exploitation.

However, the song also carries a message of hope and solidarity. The narrator speaks of the proletarians of the world uniting to stop the monstrous forces of exploitation. This unity is symbolized by the coordinated strikes in Le Havre and Rotterdam, illustrating the power of collective action. The song concludes with a reference to the ghost ship's eternal journey, likening it to the mythical Caleuche, a ghost ship from Chilean folklore that roams the seas. This imagery reinforces the idea that the struggle for justice and equity is ongoing and that the spirit of resistance endures despite the challenges.