Pasame a Buca

Rita Indiana's 'Pasame a Buca' is a vivid portrayal of the immigrant experience, particularly focusing on the struggles and resilience of a Dominican woman working in Puerto Rico. The song opens with the protagonist expressing her exhaustion from working tirelessly in the city. She recounts her journey of crossing a canal to seek better opportunities, only to find herself cleaning houses in Guaynabo, a wealthy area. The detailed descriptions of the family she works for, including a veteran missing a leg and a publicist wife, highlight the stark contrast between her life and theirs.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's feelings of frustration and anger, especially towards the family's daughters who look down on her because of her Dominican heritage. This sense of being undervalued and mistreated fuels her desire to escape and find solace in the night. The repeated refrain 'Pásame a buca' (which can be interpreted as 'come pick me up') signifies her yearning for freedom and joy, away from the drudgery of her daily life. She dreams of riding a bicycle, a Mercedes, or even a skateboard, anything that can take her away from her current reality.

The song also touches on themes of survival and celebration. Despite the hardships, the protagonist finds reasons to celebrate, such as surviving the dangerous journey across the sea. The mention of 'el corazón yo tengo un once de septiembre' (I have a September 11th in my heart) suggests a deep, personal trauma, possibly alluding to the collective memory of tragedy and resilience. The song ends on a hopeful note, with the protagonist looking forward to being reunited with a loved one, symbolizing hope and the promise of a better future.