Empty Tricks

Cafuné's song 'Empty Tricks' delves into the themes of societal oppression and the relentless struggle for justice. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where individuals are marginalized and pushed aside, forced to navigate a landscape filled with violence and deceit. The opening lines, 'We came alive when it hit 65 / But it turned out now / We could walk outside or stay alive,' suggest a moment of awakening or realization, only to be met with the harsh reality that safety and freedom are not guaranteed.

The recurring imagery of 'guns and rocks' and 'shields and beating sticks' symbolizes the tools of oppression used to maintain control and suppress dissent. These lines highlight the physical and psychological violence inflicted upon those who dare to challenge the status quo. The repetition of 'I can't switch it off / I sink and drop' conveys a sense of helplessness and exhaustion, as the constant pressure and fear take a toll on the individual's mental and emotional well-being.

Despite the bleakness, there is a glimmer of hope and resilience in the lyrics. The questions posed in the chorus, 'Do you think someday / Could be better than now? / Do I think there's some way / We could be better now?' reflect a yearning for a better future and a belief in the possibility of change. This duality of despair and hope captures the essence of the long-standing struggle for justice and equality, resonating with listeners who have experienced or witnessed similar battles in their own lives.