Pokar Alto

Los Tigres del Norte's song 'Pokar Alto' delves into the high-stakes world of drug trafficking and organized crime, using the metaphor of a poker game to illustrate the dangerous and often deadly nature of this lifestyle. The song opens with a group of men playing poker, a pastime that serves as a metaphor for the risky and unpredictable nature of their business dealings. Gonzalo, a character from Guadalajara, confidently bets his sevens, symbolizing the bold and often reckless decisions made in the drug trade.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that these men are not just playing cards; they are deeply involved in the drug trade, with references to shipments arriving in Chicago and the exchange of drugs and weapons between Latin America and the United States. The lyrics highlight the dual plagues of drugs and arms that afflict both regions, suggesting a cyclical and inescapable relationship between the two. The mention of champagne toasts and coded messages underscores the sophistication and coordination required in their operations.

The song also touches on the roles of various individuals in this illicit network. Pablo handles the airplanes, Ramón and Carlos manage the ships, Iriarte oversees the condor (likely a metaphor for another mode of transport), and Gonzalo takes care of the horses. This division of labor illustrates the complexity and organization within the drug trade, likening it to a well-oiled machine. The final lines of the song drive home the point that in this world, lives are often gambled and lost, reinforcing the idea that the 'pokar' game is not just a pastime but a deadly serious business.

'Pokar Alto' paints a vivid picture of the narco world, using the poker game as a powerful metaphor for the high risks and high rewards that define this dangerous lifestyle. The song's narrative and characters offer a glimpse into the lives of those who navigate this perilous terrain, where every decision can have life-or-death consequences.