Medalla de cartón

Fito & Fitipaldis' song 'Medalla de cartón' delves deep into the themes of war, pain, and the often unseen scars left behind by conflict. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of battles, both physical and emotional. The opening lines set the tone, highlighting the inevitability of sorrow and the imbalance in relationships where one party takes more than they give. This imbalance is mirrored in the broader context of war, where the consequences are often borne by those who had no part in the decision-making process.

The song references historical events, such as the bombing of Gernika, to underscore the recurring nature of human conflict and the destruction it brings. The imagery of a sky suddenly bursting like an unexpected hell and the cowardly wars that defend no one are powerful metaphors for the chaos and senselessness of violence. The repeated line 'pero no lo saben' (but they don't know) suggests a collective ignorance or denial of the true cost of these conflicts.

The chorus emphasizes the lasting impact of these unseen wounds, describing them as 'la memoria del dolor' (the memory of pain) that remains etched in the skin. The 'medalla de cartón' (cardboard medal) awarded to the general is a poignant symbol of the hollow recognition given to those who perpetuate violence. It suggests that such honors are meaningless and should instead be a source of shame, piercing the heart of those who wear them. Through its evocative lyrics, 'Medalla de cartón' calls for a deeper awareness of the hidden costs of war and the importance of remembering the pain it causes.