America (From "West Side Story")

Summary

The script is a vibrant and satirical portrayal of life in America and Puerto Rico, set to a rhythmic and varied musical score. It contrasts the idyllic image of Puerto Rico with the harsh realities of life there, juxtaposed with the allure and challenges of the American dream. The lyrics humorously touch on themes of consumerism, racial inequality, and the immigrant experience, suggesting a complex relationship with the notion of freedom and opportunity in America.

Takeaways

• 🎵 The script includes a series of songs and lyrics that reflect cultural and social commentary.
• 🏝 The lyrics mention Puerto Rico, highlighting its natural beauty and agricultural products like pineapples and coffee.
• 💸 There are references to economic struggles, such as 'the money owing' and the cost of living in America.
• 👶 The script alludes to societal issues, including the challenges faced by babies and people trying to make ends meet.
• 🌆 The song 'I Like the Island Manhattan' seems to contrast the appeal of an island lifestyle with the bustling city life of Manhattan.
• 🇺🇸 The lyrics in 'I Like to Be in America' satirize the American dream, pointing out the costs and racial disparities.
• 🏙 There's a contrast between the promise of the American dream and the harsh realities of life in America, such as crowded living conditions.
• 🏡 The script touches on the American housing situation, suggesting a lack of space and the impact of gentrification.
• 🗣️ There's a mention of the importance of fitting in, as indicated by the line 'Better get rid of your accent'.
• 🤝 The final part of the script suggests a desire to return to Puerto Rico, indicating a sense of disillusionment with the American experience.
• 🎉 The script ends on a lively note with cheering and clapping, possibly symbolizing a celebration or a return to a more welcoming community.

Q & A

What is the song 'Puerto Rico' highlighting about the island?

The song 'Puerto Rico' is highlighting the island's natural beauty and its agricultural products like pineapples and coffee, alongside the struggles of the people, such as financial debts and the hardships they face.

What is the contrast presented in the song 'I Like to Be in America'?

The song 'I Like to Be in America' contrasts the promise of the American Dream with the harsh realities of life in America, including the high costs, racial discrimination, and the struggle for immigrants to fit in.

What does the line 'One look at us and they charge twice' suggest about the treatment of immigrants in America?

This line suggests that immigrants may face discrimination and are sometimes charged more for goods or services, implying a lack of fairness and equality.

What is the significance of the lyrics 'Life can be bright in America if you can fight in America'?

These lyrics suggest that success and a good life in America are possible but require a struggle and the ability to stand up for oneself, possibly against adversity or prejudice.

What does the phrase 'Life is all right in America if you're a white in America' imply about racial inequality?

This phrase implies that racial inequality exists in America, where life is perceived to be easier for white individuals compared to others, highlighting systemic racism.

What is the sentiment expressed in the line 'I think I'll go back to San Juan'?

The sentiment expressed is one of disillusionment and a desire to return to one's homeland, San Juan, possibly due to the difficulties faced in America.

What is the song trying to convey with the repetition of 'La la la la la America'?

The repetition of 'La la la la la America' could be a form of mockery or a dismissive attitude towards the idealized image of America, suggesting a disconnect between reality and the American Dream.

What does the mention of 'organized crime in America' refer to?

The mention of 'organized crime in America' refers to the presence of criminal activities that are systematically organized and operated within the country, which can be a critique of societal issues.

What is the implication of the lyrics 'Free to do anything you choose, free to wait tables and shine shoes'?

The implication is that while America offers freedom, the opportunities available to immigrants or the less privileged might be limited to low-status jobs, suggesting a class divide.

What is the significance of the lyrics 'Long as you stay on your own side' in the context of the song?

This line suggests that freedom in America comes with conditions and that there are boundaries or 'sides' one must not cross to maintain that freedom, possibly referring to social or racial divisions.

What message is conveyed by the song's ending with 'Hey, Hey, Hey' and crowd cheering?

The ending with 'Hey, Hey, Hey' and crowd cheering might convey a call to action or a sense of unity and support among the people, despite the challenges they face.