Amor japonés
Divididos
The Chaotic Love and Social Commentary in 'Amor japonés' by Divididos
Divididos, an influential Argentine rock band, is known for their eclectic style and thought-provoking lyrics. 'Amor japonés' is a song that blends surreal imagery with social commentary, creating a vivid tapestry of modern life's absurdities and struggles. The song's title, which translates to 'Japanese Love,' sets the stage for a narrative that is both chaotic and reflective, touching on themes of stress, societal expectations, and personal memories.
The lyrics open with a juxtaposition of 'quilombo y stress' (chaos and stress) and 'próstata y bronceador' (prostate and suntan lotion), immediately setting a tone of disarray and confusion. The mention of a 'cagador social' (social freeloader) and smoking on an airplane hints at a critique of societal norms and behaviors. The reference to a 'boicot de yarará' (yarará snake boycott) adds a layer of surrealism, possibly symbolizing hidden dangers or societal threats.
The recurring character of the 'Negro bailarín' (Black dancer) who 'no sabe combinar' (doesn't know how to match) serves as a metaphor for someone out of sync with societal expectations. This character's struggles are highlighted through various settings, from Cancun to Hawaii, emphasizing the universal nature of these challenges. The repeated line 'te acordaste de esa mina de Carué' (you remembered that girl from Carué) suggests a longing for simpler times or lost love, adding a personal and nostalgic dimension to the song.
The song concludes with a cryptic reference to 'el capitán Beto,' a character from another famous Argentine rock song by Luis Alberto Spinetta. This nod to a cultural icon ties 'Amor japonés' to a broader Argentine rock tradition, enriching its layers of meaning and connecting it to a shared cultural heritage.