Alcoholica Funcional
Bruses
Navigating Social Anxiety: The Tale of a Functional Alcoholic
Bruses' song "Alcoholica Funcional" delves into the complexities of social anxiety and the coping mechanisms people often resort to in order to navigate social settings. The protagonist finds herself at a party where everyone is intoxicated, and she feels out of place. The lyrics capture her decision to drink as a way to fit in and manage her discomfort. The line "Bebo y bebo y bebo para no pensar" (I drink and drink and drink to not think) highlights how alcohol becomes a tool to numb her thoughts and ease her anxiety.
The song also touches on the superficiality and boredom the protagonist feels in social gatherings. She mentions how conversations revolve around trivial topics, such as celebrity gossip, which she finds uninteresting. This sense of disconnection is further emphasized by her repeated assertion that she drinks to cope with social anxiety, labeling herself as a "functional alcoholic." The term suggests that while she may appear to function normally in social settings, her reliance on alcohol is a crutch to manage her internal struggles.
Bruses' lyrics also explore the protagonist's boundaries and personal space. She explicitly states that she doesn't want to smoke marijuana and prefers to stay in her corner with her cat and plants. This imagery paints a picture of someone who finds solace in solitude and simple pleasures, contrasting sharply with the chaotic social environment. The repeated refrain of not wanting to kiss anyone who approaches her underscores her desire for personal space and autonomy, even in a setting where social interactions are expected.
"Alcoholica Funcional" is a poignant reflection on the pressures of social conformity and the lengths to which people go to manage their anxieties. It sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of those who appear to be functioning well on the surface but are battling internal demons beneath the facade.