Tirando a matar
El Tri
Fighting for Survival: The Raw Reality in 'Tirando a matar'
El Tri's song 'Tirando a matar' delves into the harsh realities of life, where survival often means taking the offensive. The lyrics open with a universal desire for peace, acknowledging that no one truly wishes to engage in conflict. However, the song quickly shifts to the inevitability of struggle, suggesting that destiny has already charted a course that includes battles we must face. This duality reflects a common theme in human existence: the tension between our aspirations for tranquility and the unavoidable challenges that life presents. The mention of God knowing why things happen adds a layer of fatalism, implying that some aspects of life are beyond our control and must be accepted as part of a larger, divine plan.
The song emphasizes the importance of having dreams and ambitions, but it also underscores the necessity of being proactive and aggressive to achieve them. The phrase 'the attack is the best defense' encapsulates this mindset, advocating for a preemptive approach to life's challenges. This perspective is further reinforced with the advice to strike first before being struck, highlighting a survival-of-the-fittest mentality. The urgency and intensity of this message are palpable, suggesting that hesitation or passivity can lead to one's downfall.
'Tirando a matar' also incorporates cultural elements, such as the reference to the Virgin Mary, which resonates deeply within the predominantly Catholic Mexican society. This invocation serves as a source of spiritual support, encouraging listeners to draw strength from their faith. The song concludes with a call to action, urging individuals to use both their physical and mental faculties to navigate the complexities of life. The phrase 'everything is fair in love and war' encapsulates the song's overarching theme: in the unpredictable game of life, one must be prepared to fight with all available resources to survive and thrive.