Nós Tenemos Muitos Nabos

Galandum Galundaina's song "Nós Tenemos Muitos Nabos" is a vivid portrayal of rural life, filled with both simplicity and hardship. The lyrics, sung in the Mirandese language, a regional language of Portugal, paint a picture of a community that relies heavily on basic, humble sustenance. The repeated line, "Nós tenemos muitos nabos a cozer nua panela" (We have many turnips cooking in a pot), underscores the scarcity of more luxurious food items like salt, lard, ham, or veal. This repetition emphasizes the community's reliance on what little they have, highlighting their resilience and resourcefulness.

The song also delves into the daily life and struggles of the villagers. The mention of different types of alforjas (saddlebags) made from wool and hemp suggests a community that values practicality and tradition. The imagery of sheep and their bells ringing as they return to the village adds a pastoral charm, yet it also hints at the hard work involved in shepherding and maintaining livestock. The lyrics, "Ls chocalhos rúgen, rúgen / Ls carneiros alhá ban" (The bells ring, ring / The sheep go there), evoke the sounds and rhythms of rural life, grounding the listener in the setting.

The narrative takes a darker turn with the story of Pedro, who is sent to the place of justice. The lines about the daughters of Lima and Bergada being in the fire, one dripping and the other roasting, introduce a sense of foreboding and tragedy. Pedro's situation is further complicated by his own hardships, as he is reminded of his meager possessions and the best girl in the land, who is blind in one eye and lame in one leg. This part of the song reflects the harsh realities and the often grim humor that can be found in rural storytelling.

Overall, "Nós Tenemos Muitos Nabos" is a rich tapestry of rural life, blending elements of simplicity, hardship, and dark humor. It captures the essence of a community that, despite its struggles, finds ways to endure and maintain its traditions.