Gora ta gora beti

The song "Gora ta gora beti" by Oskorri, a Basque folk band known for their commitment to preserving Basque culture and language, is a powerful anthem that speaks to the resilience and struggles of the Basque people, particularly those from the region of Lapurdi. The lyrics, sung in the Basque language, express a deep connection to the land and a desire for the Basque language and culture to thrive. The repeated phrase 'Gora ta gora beti' translates to 'Upwards and upwards always,' symbolizing an aspiration for continuous growth and improvement.

The song touches on the economic hardships faced by the working class in Lapurdi, highlighting the disparity between the rising cost of living ('merkatuetan dena gora doala') and the meager wages ('euskaldunon jornala') earned by laborers and farmers. It criticizes the exploitation of the land and the people by those in power, suggesting that the wealthy landowners ('Jabeek') have a broad conscience when it comes to profiting at the expense of others. The song calls for a principled struggle ('burruka garbian dago') against such injustices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity and fighting for fair treatment.

By invoking the spirit of resistance and the importance of cultural identity, Oskorri's song serves as a rallying cry for the Basque people. It underscores the need to preserve their language and traditions in the face of economic and social challenges. The song's message is one of unity and perseverance, encouraging the community to stand together and uphold their principles in the struggle for a better life.