Comunicato N° 38

Banda Bassotti's song "Comunicato N° 38" is a powerful and poignant critique of social and economic injustices. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by the working class, highlighting the disparity between the wealthy and the poor. The song opens with a stark depiction of workers who spend their entire lives paying off debts, working in hazardous conditions, and barely making ends meet. The mention of a "secure job in a poison factory" is a bitter irony, emphasizing the lack of real security and the dangerous environments many workers endure.

The song also addresses the exploitation of women in the workforce, particularly the challenges faced by mothers. The line "Maternity, a big problem for production" underscores how the capitalist system views human life and well-being as secondary to profit. The reference to "caporali" (foremen) being the same everywhere, north and south, suggests a universal experience of oppression and exploitation. The imagery of the moon and sun passing by as another day of toil begins reinforces the endless cycle of labor and suffering.

As the song progresses, it contrasts the lives of the privileged with those of the destitute. The stark differences between those who can afford luxuries and those who struggle for basic necessities are laid bare. The lyrics also touch on themes of resistance and rebellion, acknowledging the harsh consequences faced by those who dare to stand up against oppression. The song's closing lines evoke a sense of historical continuity, referencing the Italian Liberation Day on April 25th and urging comrades not to forget the struggle. This call to remember and resist serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality.