La Belleza
Miguel Bosé
The Pursuit of Beauty in a Corrupt World
Miguel Bosé's song "La Belleza" is a poignant critique of societal values and the pursuit of superficial success. The lyrics begin by rejecting the glorification of war and its associated honors, emphasizing a desire to protect the heart from the burdens of history. Bosé contrasts the past's physical battles with the modern struggle for power and status, where climbing the social ladder is the new form of combat. Despite the harsh realities, he highlights the enduring presence of beauty, even if it is buried beneath the asphalt of ambition and corruption.
The song paints a vivid picture of a world where individuals, likened to reptiles, are constantly on the prowl for opportunities to advance their selfish ambitions. These people, who once posed as prophets, are now driven by the pursuit of success, engaging in deceitful negotiations and superficial dealings. Bosé expresses a deep sense of sadness and nausea towards these mercenaries and traffickers, who have never truly grasped the essence of beauty. This beauty, in his view, is not found in material success but in the authenticity and integrity of one's soul.
In the final verses, Bosé reflects on the disillusionment with promises of a fraternal and solidary future. The fall of ideological walls has revealed a society where worth is measured by wealth, mocking the revolutionary ideals. He advocates for the illusion of being true to oneself, a journey towards nothingness that is grounded in the certainty of finding beauty in one's own gaze. This beauty, he suggests, is an inner truth and authenticity that transcends the superficial and corrupt world around us.