La Colilla

Albert Pla's song 'La Colilla' is a satirical and metaphorical narrative that uses the journey of a cigarette butt to critique various aspects of American society and its historical and contemporary issues. The song begins with a group of immigrants, referred to as 'espaldas mojadas' (wetbacks), attempting to cross the border into the United States in search of a better life. This sets the stage for a broader commentary on the harsh realities and systemic violence faced by immigrants, as well as the xenophobic attitudes that persist in society.

The narrative takes a surreal turn when the cigarette butt, which falls from the lips of a decapitated immigrant named Carlos Cuesta, begins its journey across the United States. The butt's journey is marked by a series of catastrophic events, including explosions and widespread fires, symbolizing the destructive consequences of unchecked industrialization, militarization, and environmental neglect. The imagery of the cigarette butt causing massive destruction serves as a metaphor for the small, seemingly insignificant actions that can lead to large-scale disasters, highlighting the fragility of the societal and environmental structures.

Pla's lyrics also delve into themes of revenge and justice, as the destruction wrought by the cigarette butt is framed as the 'vengeance of Moctezuma,' a reference to the Aztec emperor and a symbolic retribution for the historical injustices inflicted upon indigenous peoples by colonial powers. The song's apocalyptic vision culminates in a critique of American exceptionalism and the illusion of control, as even the most powerful institutions and technologies are rendered helpless in the face of the chaos. Through its dark humor and vivid imagery, 'La Colilla' offers a poignant and provocative reflection on the complexities and contradictions of modern society.