Castillos de Papel

The song 'Castillos de Papel' by Crack Family paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of street life and the struggles of growing up in a violent environment. The title itself, which translates to 'Paper Castles,' suggests the fragility and impermanence of the dreams and aspirations of those living in such conditions. The lyrics tell the story of a young person who is exposed to crime, violence, and poverty from an early age, and who is forced to make difficult choices to survive.

The narrative of the song is a gritty and raw account of life in the ghetto, where the protagonist grows up surrounded by drugs, crime, and desperation. The mention of a transvestite sending the protagonist to school and a mother who loves him but is sick on the streets ('en la lleca') highlights the unconventional and challenging family dynamics often found in such communities. The lyrics also touch on themes of survival, as the protagonist speaks of the need to make money by any means necessary, even if it involves violence.

The chorus of the song, with its repeated references to 'castillos de papel' and the 'vaivén' (sway or oscillation), emphasizes the instability and unpredictability of life in the streets. The game of chess ('ajedrez') is used as a metaphor for the strategic and often ruthless nature of surviving in such an environment. The song ends on a somber note, with the protagonist reflecting on the consequences of his actions, including the loss of freedom and the impact of violence on his and others' lives. 'Castillos de Papel' is a poignant reminder of the cycle of poverty and crime that entraps many youths, offering a glimpse into a world where dreams are as fragile as paper castles.