Siglo XXI

Luis Eduardo Aute's song "Siglo XXI" is a scathing critique of the modern world, filled with biting sarcasm and dark humor. The title itself, which translates to "21st Century," sets the stage for a reflection on contemporary society's moral and ethical decay. Aute references Santos Discépolo, an Argentine tango composer known for his cynical view of society, to draw parallels between the corruption of the past and the present. The song paints a bleak picture of a world where capital reigns supreme, and human values are subjugated to the pursuit of wealth and power.

Aute's lyrics are rich with metaphors and cultural references. He describes a future where lies become law, and deceit is institutionalized. The imagery of a "chorizo" (a slang term for a thief) riding in an official Mercedes and a "trilero" (a con artist) setting up his podium in a trilateral commission highlights the pervasive corruption in political and economic systems. The song also touches on the commercialization of vice, with the "camello" (drug dealer) of the future becoming the president of a corporation that controls the entertainment industry, including sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll.

The song's tone is both accusatory and self-reflective. Aute acknowledges his own complicity in the system he criticizes, admitting that his song is a "plagiarism" of Bob Dylan and Discépolo. This admission serves as a meta-commentary on the nature of art and originality in a world where everything is commodified. The final lines, which list a series of historical and cultural figures who have been "plagiarized," underscore the cyclical nature of history and the idea that the end is always a new beginning.

"Siglo XXI" is a powerful commentary on the state of the world, blending humor, cynicism, and a deep sense of disillusionment. It challenges listeners to reflect on their own roles in perpetuating the systems of corruption and to consider the possibility of change, even in a world that seems irredeemably flawed.