Una Dona Llarga I Prima

Cris Juanico's song "Una Dona Llarga I Prima" is a vibrant and playful narrative that captures the essence of traditional folk storytelling. The lyrics revolve around a tall and slim woman, described humorously as being as thin as a codfish. This vivid imagery sets the tone for a light-hearted and engaging tale that unfolds in a public square, a common setting in folk songs where community interactions take place.

The woman in the song is a vendor, selling snails in the plaza. The repetitive phrase "ara va de bo!" punctuates the verses, adding a rhythmic and almost chant-like quality to the song, which is typical in folk music to engage listeners and make the story memorable. The dialogue between the woman and a potential buyer highlights the bargaining process, a familiar scene in marketplaces. The buyer attempts to negotiate a lower price, but the woman stands firm, indicating the snails are priced higher than usual that day.

The song takes a humorous turn when the buyer wishes ill upon the woman, hoping her basket of snails will fall and she won't be able to pick it up. Ironically, this wish comes true as she turns the corner, and her basket tips over. The repetition of the phrase "ara va de bo!" throughout the song not only emphasizes the unfolding events but also adds a layer of irony and humor to the narrative. This song, with its catchy refrain and vivid storytelling, encapsulates the charm of folk traditions, where everyday occurrences are turned into entertaining and memorable tales.