Pol'o Mar Abaixo Vai

Los Tamara's song 'Pol'o Mar Abaixo Vai' is a heartfelt tribute to the lives of seafarers, particularly those from Marín, a coastal town in Galicia, Spain. The lyrics invoke 'Nosa señora do Carme' (Our Lady of Mount Carmel), a revered figure among sailors, asking for favorable winds. This plea highlights the dependence of sailors on the elements and divine intervention for their safety and success at sea.

The song vividly describes the hardships faced by these sailors. They are depicted as having a 'vela rota' (broken sail) and lacking 'estrobos' (ropes), symbolizing the wear and tear of their equipment due to relentless rowing. This imagery underscores the physical toll and the constant struggle against the forces of nature. The repeated lines about the broken sail and missing ropes emphasize the sailors' resilience and determination despite their challenging circumstances.

The chorus, 'Polo mar abaixo vai unha troita de pé' (Down the sea goes a standing trout), serves as a metaphor for the elusive nature of success and the constant pursuit of a better life. The trout, which is difficult to catch, represents the dreams and aspirations of the sailors, always just out of reach. The song also touches on the 'vida máis exclaviña' (enslaved life) of the sailors, highlighting their exhaustion and the harsh conditions they endure, coming back 'cansados do mare' (tired from the sea) and 'mollados dos salseiros' (wet from the sea spray).

Los Tamara, known for their traditional Galician music, use this song to paint a poignant picture of the seafaring life, blending cultural references with universal themes of struggle, hope, and resilience. The repetitive and rhythmic structure of the song mirrors the repetitive and arduous nature of the sailors' work, creating a powerful and evocative narrative that resonates with listeners.