Mala Herencia
Abuela Coca
The Weight of Indifference: A Reflection on 'Mala Herencia' by Abuela Coca
Abuela Coca's song 'Mala Herencia' delves into the harsh realities of urban life, particularly focusing on the struggles of youth in marginalized communities. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night that seems no different from many others, where the protagonist roams the familiar streets of their neighborhood. The routine of buying cigarettes and scraping together coins is a metaphor for the monotonous and often bleak existence faced by many young people. The sense of something breaking inside, the 'triste diapasón' (sad tuning fork), symbolizes a deep emotional and psychological fracture, a loss of voice and hope.
The song continues to explore the theme of pain and suffering, highlighting the plight of many young individuals who live with constant sorrow. The imagery of a 'crudo invierno' (harsh winter) and sleeping on the streets underscores the harsh conditions and the sense of abandonment felt by these youths. The idea of stopping time and taking someone home to sleep represents a fleeting moment of respite and care, yet it is overshadowed by the lingering lament and the feeling of something irreparably broken within.
'Mala Herencia' (Bad Inheritance) speaks to the legacy of indifference passed down through generations. The song critiques societal apathy and the failure to address the root causes of suffering. The 'mala herencia' is a metaphor for the inherited neglect and the burden of a broken system that weighs heavily on the conscience. The song ends on a note of defiance, suggesting that this indifference cannot overpower one's conscience forever, hinting at the possibility of change and the need for compassion and action.