Lo Que Esta Bien Esta Mal
Ricardo Arjona
The Paradox of Social Judgment in Ricardo Arjona's 'Lo Que Está Bien Está Mal'
Ricardo Arjona's song 'Lo Que Está Bien Está Mal' delves into the complexities of social judgment and personal identity. The lyrics reflect a man who has experienced various facets of life, from following societal norms to questioning their value. Arjona's character has voted, prayed, and adhered to protocols, only to find himself labeled as 'arisco' (unapproachable) because he never truly advanced in the eyes of society. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of self-worth and societal expectations.
The chorus, 'No valgo por lo que tengo, valgo por lo que perdí' (I am not worth what I have, I am worth what I lost), is a powerful statement against materialism and superficial judgments. Arjona emphasizes that true value lies in one's experiences and losses rather than possessions or social status. This sentiment is further highlighted by the character's indifference to his lineage or pedigree, focusing instead on the authenticity of his experiences.
The song also touches on the fleeting nature of relationships and societal hypocrisy. The line 'Tengo este amor de una noche, que se olvida con café' (I have this one-night love, forgotten with coffee) suggests a transient connection, free from the constraints of societal norms. Yet, despite this freedom, the character acknowledges that society will always have something to say, encapsulated in the recurring line 'Lo que está bien está mal' (What is right is wrong). This paradox underscores the constant tension between individual desires and societal expectations, making the song a poignant commentary on the human condition.