Vapor Di Imigrason

Mayra Andrade's song "Vapor Di Imigrason" poignantly captures the emotional and physical toll of migration. The lyrics, sung in Cape Verdean Creole, reflect the deep sense of sacrifice and longing experienced by those who leave their homeland in search of a better life. The opening lines, "Oh Deus, na sakrifísio di stranjeru / Nha kurason vivi pertadu," translate to "Oh God, in the sacrifice of the foreigner / My heart lives closed." This sets the tone for a narrative filled with silent suffering, nostalgia, and an enduring pain that never quite leaves the soul.

The sea, a recurring motif in the song, symbolizes both a barrier and a bridge. It is the medium through which the migrants travel, as well as the entity that receives their sorrow. The lyrics, "Oh mar, resebi es morna bu intrega-s / Fla-s ma un dia nós fidjus ka'l xinti mas sodadi," which mean "Oh sea, receive this morna and deliver it / Tell them that one day our children will no longer feel this longing," convey a hope that future generations will be free from the heartache of separation. The sea is asked to carry their message of hope and resilience, even as it separates families and loved ones.

The song also speaks to the collective strength and unity of the Cape Verdean people. Lines like "Nha povu fidju speransa / Nu finka pé nu djunta mon," meaning "My people, children of hope / We stand firm, we join hands," highlight the communal spirit and determination to overcome adversity. Despite the hardships, there is a sense of pride and resilience, as the people strive to maintain their cultural traditions and dignity. The repeated phrase "Na vapor di imigrason," or "On the ship of immigration," serves as a haunting reminder of the ongoing journey and the sacrifices made along the way.