Sismo
Division Minuscula
The Inner Turmoil of Modern Disconnection
Division Minuscula's song 'Sismo' delves into the emotional and existential struggles of modern life, capturing a sense of disconnection and disillusionment. The lyrics open with a powerful metaphor, comparing the protagonist's internal chaos to an earthquake ('sismo'). This metaphor sets the tone for the entire song, suggesting that the emotional upheaval the protagonist feels is as intense and uncontrollable as a natural disaster. The mention of a war outside while the protagonist remains inside watching TV highlights a sense of apathy and detachment from the world, a common sentiment in contemporary society where media consumption often replaces real-life engagement.
The song continues to explore themes of wasted time and unreciprocated effort. The protagonist laments spending time, breath, and silence on endeavors that go unnoticed and unappreciated. This reflects a broader commentary on the lack of meaningful communication and connection in today's fast-paced world. The repeated lines 'Nada que ver, no hay nada que escuchar' (Nothing to see, nothing to hear) emphasize a pervasive sense of ennui and the difficulty of finding something genuinely surprising or engaging.
In the latter part of the song, the protagonist grapples with personal vices and the search for meaning. The act of writing down emotions ('plasmo risas y llanto sobre un papel') serves as a form of catharsis, yet the protagonist still feels overwhelmed by an 'infected' body, symbolizing perhaps a deeper, unresolved inner conflict. The song closes with a reflection on a past relationship and a defiant embrace of their own way of living, even if it doesn't conform to societal norms. The final lines reiterate the earthquake metaphor, underscoring the intensity of the protagonist's inner turmoil and the struggle to find a sense of purpose or understanding in a seemingly indifferent world.