Extranjero

1915 1915

The Alienation and Displacement in 'Extranjero' by 1915

The song 'Extranjero' by 1915 delves into themes of alienation, displacement, and the emotional turmoil that accompanies these experiences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person feeling out of place in their own environment, grappling with the harsh realities of economic instability and personal disconnection. The opening lines, 'Ya empezó la huida de capital / Y yo sigo esperando,' set the stage for a narrative of economic flight and the protagonist's sense of being left behind. This economic backdrop serves as a metaphor for broader feelings of abandonment and isolation.

The recurring line, 'Soy un extranjero,' which translates to 'I am a foreigner,' underscores the protagonist's deep-seated sense of not belonging. This feeling is not just physical but also emotional and psychological, as indicated by the lines, 'Sé lo que te trajo hasta mi / No fue el amor, fue el veneno.' Here, the 'veneno' or 'poison' symbolizes the toxic elements in the protagonist's life that have led to this state of alienation. The mention of 'pastillas' (pills) and 'alquitrán' (tar) further emphasizes the destructive forces at play, suggesting that it's not substances but time itself that is the ultimate killer.

The song also touches on themes of escape and exile, as seen in the lines, 'Los barcos zarpan, vos te vas / Exilio en el Uruguay.' This imagery of ships departing and the mention of exile highlight the protagonist's desire to flee from their current circumstances, seeking solace in a new place. However, the repeated assertion of being a 'foreigner' suggests that this sense of displacement may follow them wherever they go. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics resonate deeply, capturing the universal human experience of feeling out of place and yearning for a sense of belonging.

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  1. Extranjero
  2. El Enemigo
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