El Legat Del Pastor

Albert Pla's song "El Legat Del Pastor" tells a poignant and metaphorical story of a shepherd and his flock of goats. The shepherd, who has always lived a humble life tending to his goats, finds himself caught in a sudden storm. The imagery of the gray sky and the impending storm sets a somber tone, foreshadowing the turmoil that is about to unfold. As the storm hits, the goats panic and run down the mountain, and the shepherd, in his attempt to save them, falls into a ravine. This fall symbolizes a sudden and tragic end, leaving the shepherd in a state of helplessness and near death.

In his final moments, the shepherd addresses his goats, whom he considers his family. He speaks of the legacy he leaves behind, promising them the land, the grass, the fruits, and the fields. This inheritance is not material wealth but the freedom to roam and live without constraints. The shepherd's words reflect a deep sense of care and responsibility, as he urges the goats not to mourn for him but to embrace their newfound freedom. The repetition of the phrase "Oi lai kai o lai kai rai carai" throughout the song adds a rhythmic and almost ritualistic quality to his farewell, emphasizing the gravity of the moment.

The song also introduces the figure of the "pastora de la serra," a shepherdess who is beloved by the goats and other animals. The shepherd entrusts his old leather bag to the goats, instructing them to keep it safe and to seek out the shepherdess if they ever need help. This character represents a continuation of care and protection, ensuring that the shepherd's legacy lives on. The song concludes with a bittersweet note, as the shepherd acknowledges the two things he leaves behind: the shepherdess and his flock of free-spirited goats. Through this narrative, Albert Pla explores themes of life, death, freedom, and the enduring bonds between a caretaker and those he cares for.