Cum Laude

El Niño de La Hipoteca's song 'Cum Laude' delves into the pressures and expectations placed on individuals to achieve success, often at the expense of their personal happiness and individuality. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young person being urged to excel academically and professionally, not just for their own sake but to meet the expectations of their family. The line 'La próxima vez tienes que sacar un diez' (Next time you have to get a ten) encapsulates the relentless pressure to achieve perfection.

The song critiques the societal obsession with success, as seen in the lines 'Currículum vitae, eso es para fracasados' (Resumes are for losers) and 'El éxito es perseverancia, sacrificios y reír alguna gracia' (Success is perseverance, sacrifices, and laughing at some jokes). These lines suggest that true success is not just about hard work but also about conforming to societal norms and expectations. The metaphor of 'Cantos de sirena' (Siren songs) implies that these societal pressures are alluring but ultimately misleading and dangerous.

Furthermore, the song addresses the harsh realities of the professional world, where individuals are often reduced to their productivity and replaceability. The lines 'Bienvenido al país donde todos tenemos reemplazo' (Welcome to the country where we are all replaceable) and 'Ahí va tu carta de despido' (There goes your dismissal letter) highlight the cutthroat nature of the job market. The song also touches on the loss of individuality, as seen in 'Más vale ser sombra, y que nadie me haga sombra y nunca destacar' (Better to be a shadow, and let no one overshadow me and never stand out). This reflects the idea that blending in and not standing out is often seen as a safer path in a competitive world.

Overall, 'Cum Laude' is a poignant critique of the societal pressures to conform and succeed, often at the cost of one's individuality and personal happiness. It challenges listeners to question the true meaning of success and the sacrifices they are willing to make to achieve it.