El 38

The song 'El 38' by the Argentine rock band Divididos is a gritty narrative that seems to delve into themes of violence, societal pressure, and personal struggle. The title itself, 'El 38,' refers to a .38 caliber revolver, which is a recurring symbol throughout the song, representing a potential for violence or a means of escape from one's troubles. The lyrics suggest a character who is armed and on edge, possibly reflecting the tension and danger present in certain parts of society, particularly 'en el oeste' or the west, which could be a reference to the western part of Buenos Aires, known for its rough neighborhoods.

The song also touches on the influence of media and societal expectations with the line 'Pensá, pensá', dice la tele' ('Think, think,' says the TV), indicating a bombardment of messages telling people how to live or what to value. The protagonist's resistance to these messages is evident in the lyrics 'Yo dije sí, pero no... pero no tanto' (I said yes, but no... but not so much), suggesting a struggle to maintain individuality amidst external pressures. Additionally, the mention of 'la guita se le iba por el diván' (the money goes away on the couch) could be a critique of psychoanalysis or therapy culture, which is prevalent in Argentina, and how it may not always provide the solutions people seek.

The song's narrative continues with a sense of desperation and loss, as 'la Martita se te fue' (Martita has left you) implies a personal relationship that has ended, adding to the character's burdens. The repeated advice to 'Cazá los brolis' (Catch the bros) from the protagonist's mother and the incessant talk on the radio represent the noise and advice from others that can be overwhelming. The final lines, 'Vas a los bares y no te alcanza / Todo te pesa, bancátela / ¡O al 38!' (You go to the bars and it's not enough / Everything weighs on you, deal with it / Or [turn to] the 38!), present a stark choice between enduring life's hardships or resorting to the revolver as a way out, highlighting the song's central tension between survival and surrender.