La Pericona

Victor Jara's song 'La Pericona' is a poignant reflection on the hardships faced by the common people, particularly the poor, in Chile. The song uses the character of 'La Pericona' to voice the collective grievances and struggles of the marginalized. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references that paint a vivid picture of social inequality and the desire for change.

The repeated line 'La pericona dice' (La Pericona says) serves as a refrain that introduces various complaints and observations about life’s difficulties. The comparison of life to a chain ('la vida es más dura que una cadena') underscores the oppressive and unrelenting nature of poverty. The phrase 'gato por liebre' (cat for hare) is a Spanish idiom meaning to deceive someone, highlighting how the poor are often tricked and exploited. Similarly, 'el cuento 'el tío' refers to a common scam, further emphasizing the theme of deception and mistrust that the poor endure.

The song also touches on the disparity between the rich and the poor. The line 'el rico tiene un bollo debajo 'el brazo' (the rich have a bun under their arm) contrasts sharply with the meager 'pan y pedazo' (bread and piece) that the poor have, illustrating the stark economic divide. The final verses introduce a note of hope and political activism, calling for change with the leadership of Salvador Allende. This reflects Victor Jara's own political beliefs and his support for Allende's socialist government, which aimed to address social injustices and improve the lives of the working class.

'La Pericona' is not just a song; it is a powerful social commentary that resonates with the struggles and aspirations of the common people. Through its evocative lyrics and cultural references, it captures the essence of a society yearning for justice and equality.