La zanja

Buena Fe's song 'La zanja' delves into the environmental and social issues faced by marginalized communities. The lyrics begin with a recurring request from 'the people' for a song about the environment, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the topic. The imagery of tadpoles growing legs and the chaos among small creatures like ants and worms paints a vivid picture of life in a polluted environment. The mention of soap arriving at the store and the transformation of a planning book page into a paper boat further highlight the everyday struggles and resourcefulness of the community.

The central metaphor of the song is 'la zanja,' or the ditch, which runs in front of the narrator's house. This ditch is not just a physical feature but a symbol of the neglect and marginalization experienced by the community. It is described as not being on the city's map, emphasizing its invisibility and the lack of recognition from authorities. The ditch feeds on the waste of the neighborhood, reflecting the community's internal struggles and the external neglect they face. The lyrics poignantly state that the ditch's foul smell is not its fault but a mirror of the community's inner turmoil.

Buena Fe uses 'la zanja' to critique the systemic issues that lead to environmental degradation in marginalized areas. The ditch is a microcosm of the larger societal problems, including poor urban planning, lack of sanitation, and the stigmatization of peripheral communities. By calling attention to these issues, the song urges listeners to recognize and address the root causes of environmental and social injustice. The repeated refrain about the people's request for a song about the environment serves as a reminder that these issues are not just abstract concepts but real, lived experiences for many.