Aguas peligrosas

Andrés Calamaro's song "Aguas peligrosas" delves into the chaotic and morally ambiguous world of war, drawing inspiration from the classic film "Apocalypse Now" and Joseph Conrad's novel "Heart of Darkness." The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mission to execute a genius colonel who has seen too much and become disillusioned with the horrors of war. The song's narrative is filled with surreal and dark imagery, reflecting the psychological toll and the absurdity of violence.

The song opens with the mention of a genius colonel who has witnessed too many atrocities, leading to a decision to execute him in dangerous waters. This sets the stage for a journey into the depths of human depravity and the futility of trying to make sense of the senseless. The characters in the song, including a cook, a surfer, and a black man, are all caught in this web of violence, with the captain navigating the treacherous river towards the heart of Cambodia. The reference to Cambodia and the mention of Brando, likely a nod to Marlon Brando's portrayal of Colonel Kurtz in "Apocalypse Now," further anchor the song in its cinematic and literary influences.

As the song progresses, the narrator grapples with the paradox of killing a man he acknowledges as a genius. The colonel's repeated exposure to horror has led him to a state of profound disillusionment, making him willing to embrace death. The lyrics explore themes of sacrifice, the cyclical nature of violence, and the psychological scars left by war. The imagery of crucifixion and the idea that both the narrator and the colonel are soldiers bound by their duty to kill underscore the tragic and inescapable nature of their predicament.

"Aguas peligrosas" is a haunting exploration of the human condition in the face of war's brutality. It challenges listeners to confront the moral complexities and the psychological impact of violence, leaving a lasting impression with its evocative and thought-provoking lyrics.