Na Dolores
Cris Juanico
The Tale of Dolores: A Humorous and Painful Christmas Gift
Cris Juanico's song "Na Dolores" is a humorous and somewhat tragic narrative centered around a character named Dolores and the events that unfold after she receives a Christmas gift from her boyfriend. The song is sung in Catalan, adding a layer of cultural specificity to the story. The gift in question is a chicken, described as black and white, which cost three pesetas. This seemingly simple and innocent gift sets off a chain of events that lead to unexpected consequences.
Dolores decides to cook the chicken, placing it in a pot with its feet up. This act, however, does not sit well with her mother-in-law, who becomes furious. The mother-in-law's anger escalates to physical violence, as she punches Dolores, causing her nose to bleed. The mother-in-law calls Dolores derogatory names, expressing her frustration and anger. This conflict highlights the tension and strained relationships within the family, possibly reflecting broader themes of familial expectations and the pressures of holiday gatherings.
The repetition of the phrase "Dolores, ai Dolores, cuantos dolores que tenc avui" (Dolores, oh Dolores, how many pains I have today) serves as a poignant and ironic commentary on the situation. The name Dolores itself means 'pains' in Spanish, adding a layer of wordplay to the lyrics. The song captures the absurdity and pain of the situation, blending humor with a touch of melancholy. Cris Juanico's musical style, often characterized by its folk influences and storytelling, shines through in this song, making it a memorable and relatable piece for listeners.