La Democracia

Ángel Parra's song "La Democracia" is a biting satire that critiques the superficiality and hypocrisy often found in democratic systems. Through its lyrics, Parra paints a picture of a society where democracy is celebrated in name but fails to deliver true equality and justice. The song opens with a seemingly positive note, praising the beauty of democracy and the ability for both the rich and poor to build their lives. However, this praise quickly turns into a critique, highlighting the stark contrast between the ideal and the reality.

Parra uses irony to underscore the disparities in society. He points out that while democracy theoretically grants equal rights to all, in practice, it often benefits the wealthy and powerful. The line "Para exprimir a unos cuantos y aumentar su capital" (To squeeze a few and increase their capital) reveals how the system allows the rich to exploit the poor, further widening the gap between social classes. The song also touches on racial and class issues, mocking the idea that democracy has eliminated these problems by allowing everyone to admire monuments or watch sports events together.

The song's tone becomes even more critical as it addresses the state's use of force against dissenters. The reference to police targeting young libertarians and the dismissive attitude towards those suffering from hunger highlight the oppressive aspects of the system. Parra's use of the phrase "Si sienten ruido de sables, es pura casualidad" (If you hear the sound of sabers, it's pure coincidence) is a stark reminder of the underlying threat of military force in maintaining the status quo. Through "La Democracia," Parra calls out the empty promises of democracy and urges listeners to recognize and challenge the inequalities that persist within it.