Reindeer of diamond
Mari Boine Lyrics

The lyrics of Mari Boine's song "Reindeer of Diamond" are sung in the Sami language, and they describe the natural beauty and resources of the Sami homeland, as well as the exploitation and neglect of these resources by others. The first lines repeat "The big mountains are always there. They stand and watch and watch." This suggests the timeless, enduring quality of nature, and the Sami people's connection to it. However, the next line introduces the idea of diamond mines: "They bore into the earth and bore into it, to get to my diamonds that sparkle." Here, the mountains' constant presence is contrasted with the invasive exploitation of their resources.

The next lines continue to describe the impact of the diamond mining: "The reindeer of diamond sparkle, they sparkle." This line could be interpreted in a few ways: the Sami people and their culture could be seen as "reindeer of diamond" - rare and precious, but at risk of being destroyed by the mining industry. Alternatively, the phrase could be interpreted literally, as referring to reindeer whose fur or antlers are studded with diamonds. Whatever the meaning, the repeated lines emphasize the importance of diamonds to this region.

Overall, "Reindeer of Diamond" is a powerful statement about the relationship between nature and industry, and between the indigenous Sami people and those who seek to exploit their land and resources.