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Majestic is the top of Oloku`i The proud waters of Wailau Pleasing is the ginger fragrance The gentle fragrance of this place Chorus: Quick moving water down the cliffs The mist on the lehua leaves Bright light of Kalawao Light on the ocean surface |
Source: Lyrics & translation from G. Cooke collection - This old mele tells of Kalawao, the original site of the leper settlement on Kalaupapa peninsula, Moloka`i. It describes the lighthouse and the natural features of the coastline. Stanza 1, Oloku`i is a peak in north Moloka`i and the name of the fortress where Ka`ôhele was trapped and caught by O`ahu invaders. A famous kûkini (swift runner), he was a member of Moloka`i royalty. Stanza 1, Wailau (many waters) is a valley on the north coast often called the female valley. Recorded by Moloka`i Jubilee Singers, 1930. Music clip by Gippy Cooke |
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