El Borrego

Café Tacvba's song 'El Borrego' is a vibrant exploration of the complexities and contradictions inherent in modern identity. The lyrics present a character who embodies a multitude of seemingly conflicting personas and ideologies. From being an anarchist to a neonazi, an ecologist to a capitalist, the protagonist's identity is a patchwork of diverse and often opposing beliefs. This multiplicity reflects the fluid nature of identity in contemporary society, where individuals often navigate various social roles and ideological landscapes simultaneously.

The song also delves into the protagonist's eclectic tastes in music and lifestyle. The lyrics mention a love for heavy metal, hardcore, and grunge, alongside a fondness for tropical music at home. This juxtaposition highlights the character's ability to traverse different cultural realms, embracing both the rebellious and the conventional. The mention of enjoying different music genres depending on the context—slam dancing at concerts and tropical music at home—further underscores the theme of duality and the adaptability of personal identity.

Moreover, 'El Borrego' touches on the performative aspects of identity. The protagonist describes dressing in black with painted lips but also looking sharp in a suit at the office. This duality suggests a conscious performance of different identities to fit various social settings. The act of throwing stones and then picking them up, painting walls and then washing them, symbolizes the cyclical nature of rebellion and conformity. Through these vivid metaphors, Café Tacvba captures the essence of a multifaceted identity that is constantly in flux, shaped by both internal desires and external pressures.