Historia Triste
2 Minutos
A Tale of Desperation and Survival: 'Historia Triste' by 2 Minutos
In 'Historia Triste,' 2 Minutos delivers a raw and poignant narrative that delves into the harsh realities faced by many working-class individuals. The song opens with the protagonist recounting his life story, marked by the closure of the factory where he worked and his subsequent reliance on government assistance (Anses). With a family to support, including four children and a wife, he finds himself in a desperate situation, unsure of how to provide for them. This desperation leads him to contemplate and ultimately resort to theft as a means of survival, encapsulated in the repeated line, 'Robar para comer' (Steal to eat).
The second verse takes a darker turn as the protagonist describes a failed robbery at a local market owned by a Korean man named Lee. This ill-fated attempt results in a seven-year prison sentence in Batán, a notorious prison in Argentina. The narrative highlights the cyclical nature of poverty and crime, where the protagonist's attempt to feed his family only leads to further hardship and separation from them. Despite his incarceration, his family continues to visit him, bringing a semblance of normalcy and celebration during the New Year's Eve with 'pan dulce y una sidra' (sweet bread and cider).
'Historia Triste' is a powerful commentary on the socio-economic struggles faced by many in Argentina and beyond. It sheds light on the desperation that can drive individuals to crime and the enduring bonds of family that persist even in the face of adversity. The song's raw and unfiltered lyrics, combined with 2 Minutos' punk rock style, amplify the sense of urgency and despair, making it a compelling narrative of survival and resilience.