Inga
Victor Jara Lyrics

The song “Inga” by Victor Jara is originally in Spanish language and features a simple melody with repetitive lyrics. The first verse of the song is a warning from the singer to their mother and father to watch out for “the creature” which could refer to a numerous things. It could be a person, an animal, or even something supernatural. The following verses shift from warnings to narratives. The second verse talks about how the singer’s mother urged them to work harder, which led to mosquito bites that are draining their blood. In the third verse, the singer’s father left them in the care of their mistress who may have intentions on harming them, and this is a warning for what will happen to them when her husband finds out. Overall, the warnings are being given to the ones the singer loves, so that they can keep an eye on the dangers happening to them.

The lyrics of the song “Inga” has a deeper meaning behind it than just the surface level interpretation. The singer in the song uses the symbol of “the creature” to represent the danger and insecurity that they feel and the things that threaten to hurt them. The song may be an expression of the struggles faced by migrant workers, who are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. The mention of mosquito bites and draining of blood could signify the way in which workers are exploited by their employers, who may take advantage of their labor without giving them what they deserve. The song highlights the harsh reality of life and the precarious circumstances in which some people live.