Ríe

The song 'Ríe' by 31 Minutos, a popular Chilean children's television show, presents a poignant yet satirical commentary on the harsh realities of life. The lyrics begin with vivid imagery of a hungry dog and an elderly man suffering on the streets, juxtaposed with a surreal radio broadcast about a war between aliens and cavemen. This stark contrast sets the stage for the song's central theme: the absurdity and cruelty of the world we live in.

As the song progresses, a child asks the narrator what can be done about such a cruel world. The response, 'Ríe, ríe,' or 'Laugh, laugh,' is both ironic and tragic. The narrator advises to laugh even when faced with sorrow, loneliness, and insurmountable problems. This advice, while seemingly encouraging, underscores a sense of hopelessness and resignation. The repeated instruction to laugh 'solo' (alone) highlights the isolation and individual struggle against life's adversities.

The song's chorus further delves into the inevitability of failure and disappointment, suggesting that one should laugh despite constant setbacks and societal pressures. The mention of not being muscular or talented reflects common insecurities and societal expectations. The absurdity reaches its peak with the character Cucho Lambretta, who offers his phone number for people to call, adding a layer of dark humor to the song. This character's presence serves as a reminder of the absurdity and randomness of life, reinforcing the song's message that sometimes, all one can do is laugh in the face of adversity.