Inconsciente Colectivo
Charly García
The Eternal Song of Freedom: An Analysis of 'Inconsciente Colectivo'
The song 'Inconsciente Colectivo' by Charly García is a profound reflection on the human condition, freedom, and the internal and external forces that shape our lives. The title itself, which translates to 'Collective Unconscious,' hints at the shared experiences and subconscious drives that influence individuals and societies.
The lyrics begin with the image of a flower blooming and the sun rising, symbols of hope and the constancy of nature. The voice 'gustosa de cantar' (pleased to sing) represents the joy and creativity that exist within us. However, this positivity is contrasted with the presence of a 'transformador' (transformer), a metaphor for the forces that consume our best qualities and push us towards negativity. This duality captures the struggle between the pursuit of freedom and the pressures that try to suppress it.
The chorus is a powerful affirmation of the enduring spirit of freedom. The phrase 'Mama la libertad' (Nurture freedom) is a call to internalize and protect our liberty, suggesting that despite corruption or forgetfulness, freedom is an innate part of our being. The song also acknowledges the suffering of the marginalized—'los hambrientos, los locos, los que se fueron, los que están en prisión' (the hungry, the mad, those who left, those who are in prison)—and the need to keep singing this song of freedom, which has been relevant for ages and remains necessary today. García's message is timeless, urging us to remember and cherish our freedom, no matter the circumstances.