Paquidermo
Chancho En Piedra
The Elephant in the Room: A Reflection on Humanity and Nature
Chancho En Piedra's song 'Paquidermo' uses the metaphor of an elephant behaving like a human to explore themes of humanity's disconnection from nature and the consequences of our actions. The lyrics describe an elephant that walks on two legs, wears a suit, and takes care of the narrator when they are sick. This anthropomorphized elephant symbolizes the unnatural state humans have imposed on themselves and the world around them. The song suggests that in trying to distance ourselves from our animalistic roots, we have lost something essential—our connection to love and nature.
The song takes a critical stance on human behavior, highlighting how we have sold, bought, lied, stolen, and killed, leading to a loss of innocence and purity. The line 'botar lo animal fue nuestro mayor error' (discarding the animal was our biggest mistake) underscores the idea that abandoning our natural instincts has led to a moral and emotional decline. The narrator reflects on their upbringing, realizing that the values they were taught as a child were flawed and that their true place is far from the artificial world they inhabit.
The song also touches on the theme of friendship and loyalty, particularly the unwavering bond between humans and animals. The lyrics suggest that an animal's friendship is more genuine and faithful than human relationships, which are often tainted by ulterior motives. The song ends on a somber note, expressing a sense of hopelessness about the possibility of change and a return to a more natural state. The narrator laments that the damage has been done and that it is too late to turn back, encapsulating a profound sense of loss and regret.