Hui La Liem
Auxili
Reclaiming Tradition: A Defiant Celebration
Auxili's song "Hui La Liem" is a powerful critique of traditional festivities that have lost their meaning and become tainted by outdated and oppressive values. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community's struggle against the imposition of sexist, capitalist, and feudalistic celebrations. The song opens with a scene of an elderly woman clapping as her drunken son is paraded by law enforcement, symbolizing the decay and stagnation of societal norms. The mention of the church and the state further highlights the entanglement of religious and political power in maintaining these oppressive traditions.
The chorus, "Hui la liem, nosaltres desfilem, la barca recuperem," translates to "Today we mess it up, we parade, we recover the boat," signifying a rebellious reclaiming of their cultural heritage. The imagery of the boat and the fire from the bonfire represents a return to authentic, grassroots celebrations that are inclusive and representative of the community's true spirit. The song contrasts the oppressive, imposed festivities with a new, liberated form of celebration that defies the status quo.
The song also addresses the issue of gender inequality and harassment, particularly in the lines about sexist and private parties where women are harassed with little consequence. This critique is a call to action for the community to reject these harmful practices and create a more inclusive and respectful environment. The final verses celebrate the transformation of the lower square, where the community has reclaimed their festival, turning it into a treasure that they will defend. This transformation symbolizes hope and the possibility of change, encouraging listeners to take a stand against oppressive traditions and celebrate in a way that truly represents their values and identity.