Hijos de
Basca
The Struggles of the Forgotten: A Cry for Freedom
Basca's song 'Hijos de' is a raw and poignant commentary on the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities, particularly children born into poverty and conflict. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society where guerrilla warfare, external debt, and street life are the norm for many. The opening lines, 'Hijos de guerrillas... Niños de la deuda externa,' immediately set the tone, highlighting the generational impact of socio-political turmoil and economic hardship. The street, described as their home, underscores the lack of stability and safety for these children in a 'puta sociedad'—a society that has failed them.
The song also delves into themes of hypocrisy and disillusionment with religious and political institutions. The mention of sharing and brotherhood as preached by the Bible, juxtaposed with the image of Jesus shining boots, serves as a powerful metaphor for the betrayal of these ideals. The cries for freedom and the presence of police and stones suggest a constant struggle against oppression and the harsh reality of state violence. The repeated call to 'Salvate mientras puedas'—save yourself while you can—reflects a sense of urgency and desperation, urging individuals to escape the clutches of corrupt politics and societal decay.
The latter part of the song shifts focus to the consequences of this systemic neglect. The imagery of children turned to alcohol and old men forgotten by the world paints a bleak picture of a society that discards its most vulnerable. The haunting refrain, 'Botado en un rincon, mueren mis sueños, muero yo,' captures the profound sense of hopelessness and despair. The final lines, 'almas del infierno, talvez su vida es mejor,' suggest a contemplation of whether the afterlife could offer a better existence than the current suffering. Through its stark and unflinching lyrics, 'Hijos de' serves as a powerful critique of societal failures and a call to acknowledge and address the plight of the forgotten and oppressed.