La Dicha Del Gallo
Lisandro Meza
The Envy of the Rooster's Life
The song "La Dicha Del Gallo" by Lizandro Mesa is a playful and metaphorical exploration of envy and desire for a carefree life. The lyrics repeatedly express a wish to have the same fortune as the rooster, who seems to lead a simple and satisfying existence. The phrase "Racatapun chinchin el gallo sube" is likely an onomatopoeic representation of the rooster's crowing and movements, adding a rhythmic and lively element to the song. The rooster's act of shaking off dust after a dust bath ("Echa su polvorete racatapun chinchin y él se sacude") is used as a metaphor for shaking off worries and enjoying life's pleasures without concern.
The repeated lines "Ya veras paloma, que no hay gavilán que a ti te coma" translate to "You will see, dove, that there is no hawk that will eat you." This can be interpreted as a reassurance to the dove, symbolizing a loved one or oneself, that they are safe from harm. It's a promise of protection and a declaration that one can live without fear, much like the rooster who struts confidently within the safety of the farm.
Lizandro Mesa, known for his Colombian cumbia and vallenato music, infuses this song with a traditional folk rhythm that is both catchy and meaningful. The song's lighthearted tone belies a deeper message about yearning for a life free from worry and danger, and the desire to protect and reassure those we care about. The cultural context of the song, with its rural imagery and references to farm life, adds to its charm and relatability.