Askatasun parabolikoa
Fermin Muguruza
The Parabolic Freedom: A Critique of Modern Society
Fermin Muguruza's song "Askatasun parabolikoa" delves into the complexities of freedom in contemporary society, using rich metaphors and cultural references to critique the constraints imposed by modern life. The title itself, translating to "Parabolic Freedom," suggests a freedom that is not straightforward but rather curved and complex, reflecting the paradoxes and contradictions inherent in the concept of freedom today.
The lyrics begin by addressing the notion of predetermined fate and the doctrine of fatalism, suggesting that our desires and actions are often constrained by societal expectations. Muguruza emphasizes the importance of the ability to choose one's path, highlighting that true freedom involves the power to change one's circumstances rather than being a slave to them. This idea is encapsulated in the repeated line, "Hauxe dugu Askatasun Parabolikoa," which translates to "This is our Parabolic Freedom."
Muguruza references various intellectuals and cultural figures to underscore his points. For instance, he mentions Monterroso's dinosaur, symbolizing intellectual fossilization and the stagnation of thought influenced by media and fear. He also alludes to Chomsky's critique of media, suggesting that what is not shown on CNN does not exist in the public consciousness. This ties into the idea that visibility and fame, as Warhol famously noted, are fleeting yet crucial in modern society.
The song also critiques the consumerist culture and the illusion of freedom it presents. Muguruza describes a world where people are free to consume but are ultimately disconnected and declassed, trapped in a cycle of superficiality. The imagery of a skyline filled with antennas and poorly focused TV screens symbolizes the degradation of genuine human experience, reduced to a spectacle. The song concludes with a powerful statement on the broken state of democracy, likening it to a castrated bull, emphasizing the loss of true freedom and agency in a corrupted system.
"Askatasun parabolikoa" is a profound commentary on the nature of freedom in a world dominated by media, consumerism, and superficiality. Muguruza's use of vivid imagery and cultural references invites listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of freedom and the societal structures that shape them.