Del Colimba
Hermetica
The Struggles of Conscription: A Soldier's Lament in 'Del Colimba'
Hermetica's song 'Del Colimba' delves into the emotional and psychological turmoil experienced by a conscripted soldier. The term 'colimba' is a colloquial Argentine term for a conscript, derived from the Spanish words 'corre, limpia, barre' (run, clean, sweep), which encapsulates the menial tasks often assigned to conscripts. The song's protagonist finds himself in a military barracks, lamenting his fate and the randomness of his conscription, which was determined by a lottery system rather than personal choice.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the soldier's daily life, filled with mundane and demeaning tasks. The repetition of 'en un cuartel' (in a barracks) emphasizes the monotony and confinement of his situation. The soldier's dreams and aspirations are put on hold, as he is forced to serve those who chose this path willingly. The sense of frustration and helplessness is palpable, as he curses his luck and struggles to endure the harsh reality of military life.
The song also touches on the broader theme of individual freedom versus societal obligations. The soldier's forced separation from his peers and the shaving of his head symbolize the loss of personal identity and autonomy. Despite the oppressive environment, the act of singing becomes a form of resistance and a way to cope with the hardships. Hermetica's raw and powerful delivery of these themes resonates deeply, reflecting the band's signature style of addressing social and political issues through heavy metal music.