Chapolera

“Chapolera” by Margarita Rosa de Francisco is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a coffee picker, or 'chapolera,' in the coffee-growing regions of Colombia. The song is a tribute to the singer's mother, who worked in the coffee fields and became entangled in a complex relationship with her employer. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the socio-economic dynamics and the personal struggles faced by women in such environments.

The song begins by describing the beauty and hard work of the singer's mother, who was the most beautiful among the coffee pickers. Her beauty caught the eye of her employer, who fell in love with her and wanted to marry her. However, the mother, aware of the power dynamics and the societal expectations, rejects his advances. She asserts her independence and self-worth, emphasizing that she was born from the earth among the coffee plants and cannot be swayed by mere gallantry.

The narrative takes a tragic turn as the mother eventually succumbs to the employer's advances, leading to the birth of the singer. This twist highlights the cyclical nature of such relationships and the often inescapable fate of women in these socio-economic conditions. The song ends on a reflective note, with the singer acknowledging the repetition of history and the complex emotions tied to her origins. Through “Chapolera,” Margarita Rosa de Francisco not only tells a personal story but also sheds light on broader themes of love, power, and resilience in the face of adversity.