Class Reflection and Expectations

To conclude, I found LAST met my expectations.  I was hoping to learn more about Latin American history and culture.  I was interested in this topic because I have done some travelling in Latin America, and I wanted to find out more about the different events that have shaped these cultures, and the different ways in which these cultures express themselves. i.e. music, literature, dance.  In conclusion, I feel that I learned a lot from this class, and that is generally my only expectation! So...expectations met!

To Conclude...

This semester is nearly over, and so this is my conclusion to LAST 211.  I have learned a lot about Latin American culture, conflicts and history.  Although I have done a lot of travelling to the various countries within Latin American,  it is good to be able to understand the events that have shaped their culture today.  Next time I go back, I hope that I will be able to appreciate what I have learned even more.  And I do plan to go back,  I have a lot of places I want to tour but my top five Latin American countries are Nicaragua, Venezuela, Belize, Panama and Chile!

Chile

Caye Caulker - Belize

Panama City - Panama

Nicaragua

Venezuela - Angel Falls

Murder City: Book Report

I have mentioned a lot about Murder City, here is my analysis of the book!

Murder City: An analysis of the story occurring just beyond our backyard.

Violence is now woven into the very fabric of the community and has no single cause and no single motive and no on-off button.  Violence is not a part of life, now it is life. – Bowden, 2011, p. 105

Juarez, Mexico is a large city that lies just south El Paso, a city on the US and Mexican border.  It is a city with a population that is officially stated as 1.2 million. (Bowden, 2011, p.44) However, due to the situation in Juarez, no one can be really sure that this is its actual population.  The situation is one found throughout Mexico, and that is murder.  It has been stated that in 2008 between 5000 – 6000 Mexicans were murdered, a good portion of these fatalities occurred in Juarez.  Although an astonishing number of people are being murdered in Juarez, very little is being reported on this decay of an entire city.  Charles Bowden, as a journalist, sought to uncover some truths.  He spent some time in Juarez during 2008, taking notes, writing down stories, and attempting to find out the cause of so much bloodshed.  What can be found is written in the pages of Murder City: Cuidad Juarez and the global economy’s new killing fields.  In Murder City, Bowden uses a mixture of styles to reveal the chaotic atmosphere of Juarez and he incorporates personal stories along with his own immersed journalistic observations on the situation in attempt to make readers aware of the plight of Juarez.

Bowden, as a journalist, is more than qualified to write a nonfiction book on extreme violence.  He explains why he is qualified in this area by saying, “I have covered kidnappings, murders, financial debacles, the mayhem that my species is capable of committing.  There is little within me that has not been battered or wrenched or poisoned.”  (p. Xii)  He is a man well aware of suffering, however what he found in Juarez went beyond his background, in entering Juarez he had not entered, “the country of death, but the country of killing.”  (p. XII)  When once asked in an interview, “What keeps bringing you back to that place and subject?” Bowden answered,

“Sometimes I wonder myself, but I think it is because of the U.S. press. For months when the violence began to accelerate in 2008 the U.S. press and the El Paso Times in particular ignored it or wrote it offas a cartel war even though the violence is not at all restricted to those in the drug industry. I was at two death houses where kidnap victims had been killed and buried, among other things, and I never ran into an American reporter. Imagine thousands dying and it being beneath notice of the neighboring country's media. So I lingered against my will because I thought even with my limited skills attention must be paid to such a slaughter of human beings.” (Shea, 2010)

It can be concluded that Bowden felt the need, as a public voice, to uncover what the plight of thousands of suffering people who were being ignored by both Mexico and America. 

Murder City is nonfiction, but more than that it is a work of journalism.  According to one of the praise comments found in the beginning of the book, it is, “immersion journalism.”  (Bowden, 2011)  This accurately sums up the creation of the book.  As a journalist, Bowden immersed himself in the daily happenings of Juarez, Mexico, to potentially uncover the cause of mass killing.  This immersion only adds to his credibility as an author.  Would he have written the story from the perspective of someone who had never been to Juarez, the story would not have been as compelling or authentic. 

Having seen firsthand the killings in Juarez, Bowden has a further purpose in writing this novel, he wishes to create awareness.  He mentions this in his interview with Mike Shea when he says, “I thought even with my limited skills attention must be paid to such a slaughter of human beings.” (Shea, 2010)  Bowden (2011) further articulates his intentions by in his prologue written to the ignorant reader, “Let me tell you about a killing season / What? / You don’t like violence? / I understand / But get in the car.”  (p.x) and he continues this poetic prose throughout the prologue to engage the reader in the subject, challenging the reader to stop the ignorance, and be open to the narrative journey he is about to take the reader on.  He wants people to become aware of not only the people who are killed, but also the people who vanish.  He writes at one point, “Vanishing is more final than execution because it means not simply being murdered but being erased from any real memory or participation in the human community.” (Bowden, 2011, p. 43)  Vanishing, in this case, has both a literal and derived meaning.  The literal is obvious, however as the reader pauses to reflect on the book so is the derived meaning.  It is important to Bowden that the plight of Juarez does not vanish from our memories.  That their suffering is not erased from our memories, because then we fall into the danger of being out of touch with the communities around us.  More importantly we fall in danger of living in a bubble, where life is happy and carefree, Bowden pops this bubble. 

To summarize Murder City is no easy task.  The story is a complex one; one that overall depicts the slow decay of a major Mexican metropolis.  Bowden (2011) writes that, “Killing is not deviance, it is a logical career decision for thousands floundering in a failing economy.”  (p. 74) Thus he makes the connection here between violence and the failure of a economic system.  He attributes much of this economic failure to the United States, “I watch modern factories rise, I see American franchises pop up along the avenues.  Golden arches peddle burgers, but old MacDonald no longer has a farm.” (p.101)  What Bowden is speaking of here is the fact that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), has done a lot of damage to Mexico.  To summarize, Bowden (2011) states that, “After decades of this thing called development, Juarez has in sheer numbers more poor people than ever, has in real purchasing power lower wages than ever, has more pollution than ever, and more untreated sewage and less water than ever.”  (p. 118)  Thus Bowden postulates that the USA has played a vital role in contributing to the demise of Juarez. 

          However another economy is equally critical in the death of Juarez, the drug economy.  Bowden (2011) points out that, “the war in Mexico is for drugs, and the enormous money to be made by supplying American habits, a torrent of cash that the army, the police, the government and the cartels all lust for.”  (p. 202) The violence can very much be attributed to the greed of various groups within Mexico, including the government. 

          However Bowden points out an interesting fact throughout his novel.  He points out the fact that rarely do the corpses link back to the drug cartels and their affiliates.  This is something he notices early in the book, but also throughout.  He points to the fact that many think the killings are related to drug conflicts, that the Mexican government and the United States DEA say that the violence is linked to battles between drug cartels, this does not visibly seem to be the case.  Thus most of this book is based on the premise, that if it is not the drug cartels killing hundreds of people a month, then who is?  In the end he comes up with a number of conclusions.  The violence can be linked to NAFTA and its effects, it is a way of life, and it is a result of the government, army, police and drug cartels who all work with each other and yet no one really knows who works with who.

          This book relates to the concepts of global economy, and the role that Mexico in general, and Juarez particularly, plays in this economy.  Bowden himself does a good job of explaining that it was NAFTA that delivered a blow to peasant agriculture, and sent millions feeling north in order to survive.  Mexican’s were forced to work in American factories, just so they could have a job.  He mentions that, “American factories went to Mexico because they could pay slave wages, ignore environmental regulations, in return were cheap prices at Walmart.  (Bowden, 2011, p. 99).  Thus he attributes much of the eventual decay to the American capitalism.  The idea that Americans feel they are entirely justified taking advantage of cheap labour.  The lack of regulation in Mexico made it easy for American’s to come in and destroy the traditional livelihoods of many.  The result is Juarez today, “Killing is not a deviance, it is a logical career decision for thousands floundering in a failing economy.”  (Bowden, 2011, p.74)  Thus we can see that the global economy, and Mexico’s part in this economy is relevant to Latin America studies. 

Murder City is a story with a unique structure.  Most of the story is told in fragments.  Three featured stories on Miss Sinaloa the raped beauty queen, a repentant hit man, and a journalist on the run are stories told in between the Bowden’s own observations and analysis of what is happening in Juarez.  The reader knows when the three prominent stories resume, because their chapters are headed the same each time, Miss Sinaloa, Murder Artist, Dead Reporter Driving. However the intermingling of parts is somewhat chaotic.  It was sometime difficult for the reader to shift from one story to another.  Perhaps this was just a method Bowden used to portray the disarray and uncertainty of the world he submersed himself in.  Additionally, in the middle of the book there is a photo essay containing photographs by Julian Cardona.  This section is a great addition, as it puts the stories into visual perspective.

Bowden also incorporates numerous styles into this one book.  At times he writes in fragments, a sort of poetry.  It is a noncommittal, sporadic poetry that makes little sense:

There are a million stories in the naked city.

Death be not proud

“You are the mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes,”

                                                                          James 4:14

True grit.

Suck in yer gut, we’re gonna whup it.

Don’t complain, don’t explain.

Are you feeling lucky, punk? (Bowden, 2011, p. 176)

Additionally, these poetic pieces also contain allusions, or quotes to other literary pieces.  Included in the above section is a text from the New Testament, the title of a recent movie where a young girl tracks down her father’s murderer, and a quote from Shakespeare.  When Bowden is writing is giving a deeper analysis however, he tends to stick to more formal and proper writing.  This blending of two polar opposite styles lends to a unique reading experience. The reader never knows what is coming next and must always be aware. 

Although Murder City contains some great stylistic elements, it also lends itself to some criticism.  The story becomes monotonous and repetitive at times.  It is almost as if the author is using is journalistic capabilities and providing the brief news headings on killings.  For an example:

On a Sunday, a man in a Dodge Neon is gunned down.  On Wednesday, two beaten and tortured cops are found under a bridge near the cemetery.  On Wednesday night, that cops crawls into the baker.  On Thursday, another man is executed.  On Friday, seven men are slaughtered in a house in the state capital by the authorities. (Bowden, 2011, p. 5)

The author’s intent may be to give tribute to the dead, to the thousands who have lost their lives.  However, like any news headlines, it tends to make the reader indifferent and accustomed to the incomprehensible suffering. 

In conclusion, Murder City, provides an excellent interpretation of the killings in Juarez.  Charles Bowden, submerses himself into Juarez, allowing him to provide a authentic, detailed account of the killings that are occurring.  He provides not only a human element by incorporating stories of various people he has met and interviewed, but he also provides a deeper analysis of why so many people are being killed, and what that means for Juarez, Mexico and America.  Bowden writes with a purpose, and that is to inform the uninformed.  While he does not expect people to understand, he wants them to know.  The structure of the story conveys the uncertainty of Juarez; you never know what is coming next.  The style of the story is both formal and chaotic.  To sum it up, Murder City is the unique telling of a shocking story occurring just outside our backyard. 

References:

Bowden, C.  (2011) Murder city: Cuidad Juarez and the global economy’s new killing

               field. New York, NY: Nation Books. 

Shea, M. (Interviewer) & Bowden, C. (Interviewee).  (2010)  Charles Bowden. 

               [Interview].  Texas Monthly, 38(4): 56. Accessed May 24, 2012 from Academic

               Onefile.  

Strange Pilgrims: An Analysis

          Historically pilgrims have been travellers in search of something holy, in search of a Mecca, or Jerusalem.  History recounts countless tales of those in search of spiritual greatness, the struggles these pilgrims had in finding what they were searching for, the blood that was shed, and the lives that were sacrificed. As the world has become more secular, the meaning of the word pilgrim has changed.  The first Pilgrims in America were pilgrims in search of religious freedom; the pilgrims of Strange Pilgrims are in search of the supernatural.   Strange Pilgrims is a collection of twelve short stories, written by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.  The unique collection of stories find various Latin American characters transplanted in Europe.  Each character must create their own means of survival, and each character does so in their own way.  Several characters take on mystical and bizarre ways of surviving; others find more practical and reliable means of coping.  In Strange Pilgrims, Marquez offers a collection of short stories portraying Latin American pilgrims wandering in a land that is not their own, and by incorporating a nostalgic theme by making references to Latin American history and culture throughout the novel.

Strange Pilgrims was written by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.  The author is a Latin American himself, born in 1927 in Aracataca, Columbia.  He currently resides in Mexico City.  (Marquez, 1993) As a Latin American who has done extensive travelling, he has a diverse recollection of the people he has met and the stories they have told.  In his prologue he mentions that this book was not written at one point in time, rather over the years.  They are bits and pieces of notes, and scraps of stories that he compiled.  (Marquez, 1993, p. Vii)  However he also introduces the supernatural here.  He mentions that the idea for his first story came to him in the early 1970’s, “as a result of an illuminating dream I had had after living in Barcelona for five years.”  (Marquez, 1993, p. Vii)  It was a dream of his own funeral where everyone was happy, and himself more than anyone because he got to be with his Latin American friends.  (Marquez, 1993, p. Viii)  This theme of the dream reoccurs throughout the novel. 

It is apparent that the author himself was a pilgrim in Europe.  In his prologue he states that he “returned to Mexico from Barcelona.”  (Marquez, 1993, p. Vii)  Implying that he had been in Europe, he makes similar implications about Paris, Rome and Geneva.  Thus the author is speaking from his own experiences having travelled to Europe, and met other Latin Americans while there.

Each story contains a Latin American pilgrim.  This pilgrim or protagonist always originates from Latin America, and for some reason or another leaves for Europe.  The circumstances surrounding this wondering from Latin America across the Atlantic always differs.  For an example, in the chapter entitled, “Bon Voyage, Mr. President,” an overthrown president travelled to, “Geneva after two world wars in search of a definitive answer to a pain that the doctors in Martinique could not identify.” (Marquez, 1993, p. 4) Thus he was looking for better health.  In another chapter, titled, “I sell my dreams,” the protagonist was, “born in Columbia, and had come to Austria between the wars, when she was little more than child, to study music and voice.”  (Marquez, 1993, p. 64) It is evident therefore that there is no connection between the stories, nor is there any rhythmic sequence to the pilgrimages of these Latin American protagonists. 

The only other significant character in the stories is the author himself, who writes from a first person point of view, as if he were telling his readers a story.  For an example he says, “I saw Margarito Duarte after twenty two years....” (Marquez, 1993, p. 36)  Marquez often starts his chapters, or stories in such a manner, implying that these are people he has met, and he is relaying their stories of the transition from Latin America to Europe.  Thus Marquez himself is an important character in the novel.

The tone that Marquez sets in Strange Pilgrims is a complex one.  It is understandably more difficult to identify the mood in twelve very different stories.  For an example, in “Sleeping Beauty and the airplane,” there is a tone of fantasy where the author speaks of a beautiful girl that is sitting on the plane next to him.  She sleeps the entire trip, while he watches over her, as the ancient Japanese tradition where rich men paid money to watch, “the most beautiful girls in the city....they could not touch them...because they essence of their pleasure was to see them sleeping.”  (Marquez, 1993, p. 60)  However other stories turn more grotesque, such as “I only came to use the phone.”  This story tells the tale of a woman who only wants to reach a phone with which to call her husband that she will be home late.  She ends up in an asylum for mental women, and becomes trapped there.  In this case the line between what is real and what is imagined becomes incredibly hard for the protagonist to differentiate, and eventually she does become mad.  Thus there are various themes and tone running throughout the novel.  However one thing remains constant and that is the reoccurrence of the magical, fantasy, and dreams, the supernatural. 

Throughout the novel nearly every story contains some element of mysticism.  “The saint” is the story of the daughter of a Columbian peasant who died, but whose body remained intact, a miracle.  “I sell my dreams,” is the story of a woman who is able to predict the future through dreams, and makes a living by selling these predictions to people.  “The ghosts of August,” is a story about a ghost in ancient castle.  And many more examples could be made, but these examples give a good idea of the presence of fantasy throughout the book. 

The relation between fantasy and the author’s intent is made clear in his prologue.  Marquez (1993) writes that, “True memories seemed like phantoms, while false memories were so convincing that they replaced reality.  The meant I could not detect the dividing line between disillusionment and nostalgia.”  (p. Xii).  Moreover, it become evident that Marquez writes with a style that cleverly blurs this distinction as well.  The reader becomes unable to clearly distinguish what is real and what is fantasy.  Who knows whether Frau Frieda, “I sell my dreams,” is really able to predict a future, who knows whether her dreams really had anything to do with real life? 

However there are mentions made of real life Latin American history, culture and traditions.  And while the book is filled with fantasy, magic and dreams, these references are easy to pick up on.  For an example, “I only came to use the phone,” speaks of the mariachi being played at a wedding.  This is still a popular Latin American tradition.  Another reference is made to “Venezuelan writer Miguel Otero Silva.”  (Marquez, 1993, p. 92)  Silva was indeed a Venezuelan author, so here reference is made to literary traditions of Latin America.  Additionally, “Bon Voyage, Mr. President” speaks of political disenchantment, popular in Latin American history.  It is the story of an overthrown, Latin American president who has to go to Europe to seek medical treatment.  The president is not given a name rather he is referred to as ‘Mr. President.’  This reference is perhaps to the political situations in Latin America.  Numerous other references were made, however these give a good understanding of the way in which Marquez incorporates Latin America history and culture. 

Although Marquez provides a interesting compilation of stories, Strange Pilgrims, read like the title itself.  Pilgrims can also be termed wanderers, and this book wandered in its effectiveness and structure.  The stories did not transition into each other; rather they wandered in terms of content, length, and themes.  One story deals with fantasizing love, while the next deals with an old prostitute preparing herself for her burial.  While the book lacked flow, it did contain excellent detail and the effect the author intended.

Many of the stories left the reader wondering what exactly was going on.  What was real and what was not.  If these were people the author had indeed met, did they actually experience this events?  The only way by which the author could successfully achieve is this is by paying careful attention to the detail of the story. 

In conclusion, Strange Pilgrims is the story of Latin Americans who have left their homeland.  It is the story of their attempt at finding whatever they were searching for in Europe.  For some this was health, for others it was better education, or even validation of their own identity.  The reference to various Latin American traditions, however, perpetuates that idea, that these people are never without their heritage that it will carry with them forever. Although the stories did not contain much relevance towards each other, they did contain a similar underlying theme, that of the supernatural.  The supernatural was, however, the force that binds these wandering pilgrims together as they sought their destiny.

  

References:

Marquez, G.G.  (1993).  Strange Pilgrims.  Toronto, ON: Random House.

Social Rebellions

Throughout Latin American history, many culture groups have been subjugated to the rule of others.  Most notably the indigenous groups.  Below are a few examples of the rebellions that occurred throughout Latin America.  Generally, the underlying basis of most of these rebellions was ethnicity, racial difference, and the effects of racial superiority.  Another important factor in social movements was nationalism and worked on political socialism.

Zapatista Mexican Rebellion:
In 1994, the indigenous of Mexico's southern most states gathered together to rise against the authoritative government.  Their main tactic in this battle was to influence people through the use of media, both internet and musicians. The main agendas of this rebellion were democracy, freedom and justice.  They were able to gain international attention, however

A common slogan during this revolution was 'Ya Basta' or 'Enough Already.'

The use of a mask was also purposeful, it represents the feigned state of Mexico's affairs.

Movimiento V Republica (Fifth Republic Movement) (MVR):

This rebellion, which took place in Venezuala, was a left-wing, Socialist political party.  It was founded in July 1997, to support the rise of Hugo Chavex, in the 1998 elections.  The "Fifth Republic" refers to the fact that in 1997 the then Republic of Venezuela was the fourth in Venezuelan history, and the Movement aimed to re-found the Republic through a constitutional assembly. Following Chávez' 1998 election victory, this took place in 1999, leading to the 1999 Constitution of Venezuela.

Political flag of the MVR party

Hugo Chavez, leader of MVR

Movimento dos Trabalhadores Sem Terra (Landless Workers' Movement) (MST):

Regarded a one of the largest social movements in Latin America, MST had an estimated 1.5 million participants. The MST's goal was to make people aware of unjust land distribution, and help farmers realize their civil rights.  They demanded the restoration of a social contract that provided a more sustainable way of life for the farmers and rural inhabitants.  

Protesters in Brazil

MST emblem

Cuban Revolution (26th of July Movement):
The Cuban Revolution was an armed revolt by Fidel Castro's 26th of July Movement against the regime of Batista, the Cuban dictator.  The revolution lasted for a few years, beginning in 1953 and finally replacing the regime in 1959.  

26th of July Movement Flag

Fidel Castro and his army

Bolivian National Revolution:

The Revolutionary Nationalist Movement (MNR) was a middle class coalition that emerged in 1941, after the Chaco War.  The party promoted Marxism as a better fit for Bolivia's culture than a nationalist ideology. In 1952, the MNR led a revolt against the oligarchy Partido Izquierda Revoluncionario (PIR).  They were successful, and under the leadership of President Victor Estenssoro and Hernan Siles, they introduced universal suffrage, land reforms, rural education, and nationalized tin mines.  They were also one of the first countries to take into account the indigenous populations and their needs.  

Bolivian Revolutionaries

MNR emblem

Mexican Revolution:

One of the earliest Latin American social revolutions occured in Mexico.  It began in 1910 and lasted for approximately 10 years.  This revolution led to the creation of the Institutional Revolutionary Party, or the PRI, a party that held power until the year 2000.  The main reforms that this revolution fought for was agricultural reforms as well as other political and economic freedoms.  Emiliano Zapata, the main leader of this revolution, is still well revered among the Mexicans.  The revolution ended in 1920 with general elections.

Emiliano Zapata

PRI Party Symbol

A snapshot in time

I really enjoyed hearing about Latin American photographers, maybe that is because I am taking a photography class right now as well!
I thought I would do a little post on one of my favorite, more contemporary Latin American photographers, Pedro Meyer.  He has taken pictures all over Latin America, here is just a sample of my favorites!

This picture says so much about American globalization and its effects on local populations.  

Nicaragua, 1984, General Elections

 

Tuesday Evening Comics

Mundo Quino is a well known, Latin American comic strip created by a Joaquin Slavado Lacado, a cartoonist from Argentina.  His most famous cartoon strip, features a six year old girl called Malfalda.  This girl is concerned about humanity and world peace, as well as the current state of the world.  She often makes ironic comments about Argentina society, or national idiosyncrasies. Below is one of Lacado's comic strips.

The cartoon pictured above, seems to speak to the current state of the world.  Mafalda, the older girl, is teaching her younger brother about some basic things such as the plant and chair.  However when he points to the globe, which represents the world at this time, she say's its his diaper.  What can be interpreted here, is that the world situation currently stinks.  There is obviously some international or global economic phenomenon occurring that is giving her a pessimistic view of the world.

Muralista's: My Favorite Works

I have never heard of the word 'Muralista' till today.  Apparently, painting murals was a movement brought about in the 1930's in Mexico.  Murals were created as both a social and a political tool.  One of the muralistas that I find most fascinating is Jose Clemente Orozco, social realist painter, who created a lot of powerful art during his lifetime.  (Novemeber 1883 - September 1949).

In this painting entitled, "The Trench," from 1926 Orozco is attempting to portray the revolution occurring at the time.  The dead soldiers portray the violence of the time, as well the use of dead rather than fighting soldiers implies realism.
Another one of Orozco's popular works is, "Gods of the Modern World," a painting with a focus on the social time Orozco was positioned in.  It portrays the way technology was shaping his environment, and is a powerful work of art.

Juarez in the News

After having read Murder City by Charles Bowden, I was intrigued about the situation in Juarez today.  The book relates the tragedies and killings that occurred in 2008.  Recently I stumbled on a article on the Washington Times website.  It seems that the rate of murders in Juarez is decreasing which is encouraging to hear as the people in that region have suffered beyond our imagination.  The article attributes the decrease in crime rates to various factors.
1.  There was a shift in power between two prominent drug cartels.  The Sinaloa Cartel became more powerful when the Juarez Cartel head was arrested and brought to the States.
2.  The creation of jobs by the Mexican government.  Many Mexicans had lost their jobs when the US economy went south.  This caused workers to find the only employment they could, hit-men.
3. Juarez has a new chief of police who appears to be cleaning out the corrupt cops.
4. Citizens of Juarez are working together to bring their city back.

If you are interested in reading more on the current state of Juarez, Mexico, follow this link: Life stirs anew in murder capital Juarez.  

Here it is: Analysis of "Casas de Carton"

“Casas de Carton,” or as translated in English, “Houses of Cardboard,” is a song written by Ali Primera.  It is a simple composition that speaks about the situation in Venezuela.  The song, although simple in structure, contains a repressive story.  It is a song that spoke to the people of Venezuela during the mid-late 1900’s.  Ali Primera’s song lasted beyond his lifetime, and became popular again during the time of Hugo Chavez in the early 1990’s.  Thus “Casas de Carton,” composed by Ali Primera is a simple song, written in the Nueva Cancion style, with elements of Gaita tradition that had a powerful impact on Latin American society that continued to be used for political purposes beyond the lifetime of Primera.   

Ali Primera was a well known man in Venezuela.  According to Nichols & Morse (2010), he was known as the, “Singer of the People.”  Meaning he wrote songs that meant something to the people of Venezuela, his songs resonated within them.  Perhaps the reason these songs resonated with people, was because Ali Primera wrote songs that condemned exploitation and repression, and that celebrated resistance.  (Dineen, 2001, p. 134)  More of the lyrics in his song “Casas de Carton,” will be analyzed later. 

However, Ali Primera did not begin his song writing career in Venezuela.  He studied music at Universidad Central de Venezuela.  Upon graduating in 1968 Primera received a scholarship by the Venezuelan communist party to further enhance his musical education in Romania.  It was in Romania that he recorded his first Album.  (Nichols & Morse, 2010, p. 289).  Primera continued to record songs until he died in a fatal car accident in 1985.  Many of his fans believed that the car accident was not accidental, but rather framed.  (Nichols & Morse, 2010, p. 290)  Although Primera did not write his first album in Venezuela, those songs have had a lasting impact on the public.  His album, which contained the song Casas de Carton, was released in 1975.

The songs Primera wrote all contained a certain unique style.  It is said that he wrote in the Nueva Cancion style, or ‘New Song’.  Basically this genre is a combination of traditional folk music with contemporary music that often contained a political or social message.  (Nichols & Morse, 2010, p. 289)  There is significance in Primera using this genre for his compositions.  According to Viglietti (1986), “The movement was most successful in the sphere of lyrics, where it reached poetic heights which were no obstacle to communication, even with audiences elsewhere in Latin America.” (para. 7)  It was a movement that originated in Cuba in the 1950 and 60’s, and gained popularity in the 1970 and 80’s when many Latin American countries were involved in political conflicts.  (Viglietti, 1986, para. 6)  Thus Primera wrote songs in the height of this movement, and as a political social activist it made sense for him to incorporate this style into his song writing. 

Furthermore, Primera’s songs were sung in the Zulia region’s form of music called gaita.  This is a style that incorporates African, indigenous, and Spanish instrumentation and rhythms.  (Carruyo, 2005, p. 98)  Additionally, this style draws on, “historical memory, local lived experience, and regional symbols to create a sense of community and collective opposition to perceived injustice.”  (Carruyo, 2005, p. 98)  This three concept in regards to Gaita’s are important in understanding the meaning behind the lyrics of Casas de Cartons.

So what is Primera trying to say in his song “Casas de Cartons”?  “Casas de Cartons” is a simple, uncomplicated song with a powerful meaning.  The chorus is repeated four times, “How sad the rain sounds in the cardboard rooftops / How sad my people live, in the cardboard houses.” (Primera, 1975) Primera is pointing to the suffering here, and the seemingly hopelessness of this suffering through repetition.    Although Venezuela is known to be a relatively peaceful and stable country since its democratization in 1958, there was some unrest concerning oil production.  (Mahler, 2011, p. 584)  It is said that the conflict that has arisen in Venezuela, is due to, “indirect mechanisms resultant from the decline of oil abundance, deficient resource sector management, and consequent economic distortions.” (Mahler, 2011, pg. 604) Thus oil, itself is instrumental in causing subsequent problems mentioned in the song.  The problems that Primera includes are, “Today is the same as yesterday; it’s a world with not tomorrow,” or in other words, no hope for the future.  (Primera, 1975)  “Bellies bloated with worms,” or lack of basic necessities.  (Primera, 1975)  And, “his owner, since many years ago/Has been tearing up the honest worker,” or exploitation by the government.  (Primera, 1975) These factors combined have created a situation where Primera’s people live in dismal conditions. “How sad my people live, in the cardboard houses.”

The exploitation of the Zulia region is an important consideration. According to Carruyo (2005) the Zulian’s live in a region full of oil and prosperity; however, “they have been robbed of their “fair share” of the profits.” (p. 102).  Thus this region is one which has been exploited.  Primera (1975) also alludes to this in his song, “How happy, the dogs live, in the rich exploiter’s home.”  This is a clear reference to being exploited by the government in regards to wages and prosperity sharing.  While the Zulians have apparently contributed to the success, through labour, they are not permitted to share in it.  It is the effects of this exploitation that Primera tries to convey through his song.

Primera, in keeping with Gaita tradition, also invokes a feeling of community.  By using the word, ‘my’, he brings together a community: “How sad my people live, in the cardboard houses.” (Primera, 1975) The word ‘my’ is a possessive pronoun.  Primera keeps in mind that the contents of the song are not about the individual but about a collective group of people and their experiences, his group of people.  The use of the word ‘my’ also allows him to establish a relationship with the public.  It is this personal connection that gives him the reputation as a “singer of the people.” 

Gaita’s also tend to include discussion of food, utilities and transportation, or the local lived experience.  The purpose of this is to link people to the government.  (Carruyo, 2005, p. 102).  In the case of “Casas de Cartons,” this is also evident in the lines, “Bellies bloated with worms and that’s why / How sad the children live, in the cardboard houses.” (Primera, 1975) The reference to food, or the lack of it, is an example of a shared local experience.  The poverty resulting from the government’s lack of provisions and profit sharing creates a distant relationship between themselves and the people. 

This style and form of music draws on people emotions and speak of political conflict, and as such were used beyond Primera’s lifetime.  It is said that Hugo Chavez, who lead the coup attempt in 1992, used Primera’s work to aid him.  (Carruyo, 2005, p. 109) The spirit of the songs, and their ability to unite groups aided him in providing and anti-elitist theme to his work.  Music has the ability to extend beyond the lifetime of a composer, much like the work of Primera.  This song is maybe more famously know for its part in the movie, “Voces Inocente” a tale about the 1980’s civil war in El Salvador.  It is interesting to note that in this movie, the lady turns to the man singing the song and pleads with him not to, because it will get them killed.  (techos de carton, de la movie de voces inocentes, 2007) Even years later, this song had significant impact on the Latin American people.  It was still a song that spoke to many different groups who were being oppressed at the time.  And more importantly it was a song that instilled fear in the hearts of the government, because in many cases it was banned, or frowned upon. 

In conclusion, the song “Casas de Carton” was a powerful song in Latin America.  The style and genre it incorporated where ones popular for the time.  The Gaita specifically allowed for the telling of a community, and their life experiences.  The Nueva Cancion was popular in developing stories about political unrest, and dissatisfaction.  Ultimately the song has had an impact on countries beyond Venezuela, such as El Salvador.  Ali Primera, as a social activist was able to create a strong relationship with the people of his time through the simple rhetoric and message of his lyrics. 

  

References:

Carruyo, L. (2005) La Gaita Zuliana: Music and the politics of protest in Venezuela.  Latin American Perspectives, 32 (3):98-111.  DOI: 10.1177/0094582X05275528

Dineen, M. (2001) Culture: Customs of Venezuela.  Westport, CT: Greenwood Publishing Group.

MÄHLER, A. (2011). Oil in Venezuela: Triggering conflicts or ensuring stability? A historical comparative analysis. Politics & Policy, 39: 583–611. DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-1346.2011.00305.x

Nichols, E.G. & Morse, K.J.  (2010) Venezuela.  Westport CT: Greenwood Publishing Group.

Primera, A.  (1975)  Casas de Carton. 

Pulquitoman. (2007). Techos de carton, de la movie de voces inocentes.  [Video]. Retrievedfrom http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydvXzVMsiI0)

Mambo, Salsa, Mariachi...

Latin America contains a huge variety of music styles. Many of them we are familiar with today such as salsa and tango's. Below is a map where all the different genres are popular.  And included is a sample of the most popular and distinctive music styles from Latin America.

Mariachi Music originates from Mexico.  It is generally created with an ensemble of stringed instruments, and originated during the post-colonialism era.

Mambo Music originated in Cuba, but spread to other parts of the Caribbean.  Essentially it is lively and energetic music, played in conjunction with dance.

Salsa Music is meant to be hot, wild music, as implied by its name.  Although this music style originated in Cuba, it has gained a global reputation.

Kaseko Music originated in Suriname, and is also popular in French Guiana.  It is rhythmically complex music, that incorporates a lot of percussion instruments.

Huayno Music originated in Peru, and is also popular in other Andean countries.  It is a mix between traditional folk music and popular dance music.

Tango Music is native to Argentina, and is also popular in Uruguay.  It is a style of ballroom dance, and is usually played by a sextet.  The Tango is a genre of music that is well known around the world.

Cumbia music is popular on the west coast of Latin America in countries such as Columbia, El Salvador, Chile, Guatemala, etc.  Historically, Cumbia was a courtship dance, and this music accompanied it.

Coming Soon...Song Analysis

The song I have chosen for my song analysis is Casas de carton by Ali Primera a Venezuelan folk singer.  If you are interested in hearing it in Spanish, the video is below.  

How sad, the rain is heard

On the cardboard roofs

How sadly my people live

In the cardboard houses.

The worker comes descending,

Almost dragging his footsteps

For the weight of suffering

Look how much is the suffering

Look how much the suffering weighs

He leaves the pregnant woman above

The city is below,

And he loses himself in its tangle.

Today is the same as yesterday

It's a world without tomorrow.

How sad, the rain is heard

On the cardboard roofs.

How sadly my people live

In the cardboard houses.

Children the color of my land

With the same scars

Millionaires of worms, and

Therefore how sadly the children live

In the cardboard houses.

How sad, the rain is heard

On the cardboard roofs.

How sadly my people live

In the cardboard houses.

You're not going to believe

But there are schools for dogs

And they give them education

So they don't bite the newsboys

But the boss

For years, many years

He is biting the worker.

How sad, the rain is heard

On the cardboard roofs.

How far away, passes a hope

In the cardboard houses.

My long weekend read

I spent the long weekend reading Murder City by Charles Bowden.  I knew that violence existed in Mexico, but it was actually shocking to read the extent of the violence that occurs in Juarez, Mexico.  It's over hard to understand that such brutality still exists today, where hundreds of people or killed each month.  This is not your average, academic ethnography, but a real portrayal of life in Juarez.  I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in learning more about the effects of American globalization and drugs in Mexico.

Latin America Food

Having been to various countries in Latin America, I have several favorite local foods.  One of my favorites is cheese empanadas, which I ate a lot when I was in Bolivia.  The empanada is a stuffed pastry that can be found throughout South America.  Some people put a potato and meat mixture in it, others just put a meat and sauce in it, but my favorite was the cheese filling!  Below is a video tutorial on how to make an empanada with a chicken and cheese filling, I can't wait to try it!

One of my other favorite Latin American recipes is jerk chicken, which I was introduced to in Jamaica.  The chicken is delicious, and because I love it so much I included a video on how to make Jamaica Jerk Chicken as well!