Provocacion

Alejandra Guzmán's song 'Provocacion' paints a vivid picture of a life filled with tension and chaos. The lyrics open with the protagonist being woken up by quarreling neighbors and a landlord demanding rent, setting the stage for a day fraught with stress. This immediate sense of urgency and disorder is compounded by the bombardment of distressing news, particularly images of the Iraq war, which metaphorically turn the protagonist's mind into a ticking time bomb. The repeated phrase 'na, na, na, na' serves as a cathartic release, a momentary escape from the overwhelming pressure.

The chorus, 'vivo sobre un polvorin, provocación, saquen el fuego de aqui,' translates to 'I live on a powder keg, provocation, take the fire away from here.' This line encapsulates the central theme of the song: living in a volatile environment where any spark could lead to an explosion. The protagonist feels trapped in a situation where aggression and conflict are the norms, and the plea to 'take the fire away' is a desperate cry for peace and stability. The mention of 'esto es un infierno' (this is hell) further emphasizes the unbearable nature of her circumstances.

Adding another layer to the narrative, the protagonist's partner is described as being oblivious to the chaos, living in a metaphorical castle and refusing to come down to reality. This detachment only heightens the protagonist's sense of isolation and frustration. The song concludes with a bleak observation: 'Escondiendonos bajo tierra como hermano avestruz, nada cambia,' meaning 'Hiding underground like ostrich brothers, nothing changes.' This final line suggests a sense of hopelessness, as if no matter how much one tries to escape or hide, the external chaos remains unchanged.

'Provocacion' is a powerful commentary on the stress and instability of modern life, amplified by personal and global conflicts. Guzmán's raw and emotive delivery adds depth to the lyrics, making the song a poignant reflection on the human condition in turbulent times.