Cuerpo

Aterciopelados, a renowned Colombian rock band, delves into the profound question of the body's purpose in their song 'Cuerpo.' The lyrics explore the dichotomy between superficial and meaningful uses of the body, challenging societal norms and expectations. The song opens with a rhetorical question, 'Para que me sirve mi cuerpo?' (What is my body for?), setting the stage for a reflective journey. The initial verses contrast the idea of using the body for external validation, such as wearing a bikini to be admired, with the simple pleasure of feeling the breeze without any rush. This juxtaposition highlights the tension between societal pressures and personal fulfillment.

As the song progresses, Aterciopelados further examines the body's purpose by comparing self-objectification with deeper, more intimate experiences. The lyrics question whether the body should be used to conform to beauty standards, like comparing oneself to the 'diva del momento' (diva of the moment), or to feel the warmth of a lover's kiss. This contrast underscores the band's critique of a culture that prioritizes appearance over genuine human connection. The song also emphasizes the body's functional and emotional capacities, such as using the brain to understand, the hands to write, and the heart to feel. These lines celebrate the body's ability to create, express, and connect on a profound level.

In the latter part of the song, the band addresses the commercialization and objectification of the body, questioning whether it should be used to sell products or conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Instead, they advocate for embracing the body's natural functions and its role in fostering love and connection. The repeated refrain, 'Para que me sirve si no pa quererlo' (What is it for if not to love it), serves as a powerful reminder to appreciate and cherish the body for its inherent worth. By the end of the song, Aterciopelados encourages listeners to move their 'esqueletico' (little skeleton) and celebrate the body's ability to experience joy and love, rather than succumbing to societal pressures.