Boricua En La Luna
Fiel A La Vega
The Heartfelt Cry of a Diasporic Soul: Boricua En La Luna
The song 'Boricua En La Luna' by Fiel A La Vega is a poignant expression of Puerto Rican identity and the experience of the diaspora. The lyrics tell the story of a person born to Puerto Rican parents in New York, exploring themes of belonging, cultural heritage, and the longing for a homeland left behind. The song's title, which translates to 'Puerto Rican on the Moon,' metaphorically conveys the feeling of being far from one's roots, yet still deeply connected to them.
The narrative begins with the journey of a woman from Aguadilla to New York, not just to sing but to live and give birth. The protagonist is born from her tears, symbolizing the pain and sacrifice of leaving one's homeland. The father, a laborer from Las Marías, also moves to New York with the hope of returning but ends up dying in a workshop, illustrating the harsh realities faced by immigrants seeking a better life. The song emphasizes that the love for Puerto Rico is an intrinsic part of the protagonist's identity, regardless of where they were born.
The chorus challenges anyone who denies the protagonist's Puerto Rican identity, asserting that being Puerto Rican is an innate quality that cannot be diminished by birthplace. The song uses the moon as a symbol to argue that one's connection to their homeland is as natural and undeniable as the moon's connection to the earth, whether it's over the sea or the mountains. 'Boricua En La Luna' is a powerful anthem for Puerto Ricans everywhere, affirming that their identity is not defined by geography but by the love and pride they carry for their culture and heritage.