Estamos Prohibidos

Jarabe de Palo's song "Estamos Prohibidos" is a powerful commentary on the numerous restrictions and prohibitions that permeate modern society. The lyrics list a series of prohibitions, from the mundane, such as smoking and walking on the grass, to the more profound, like thinking, loving, and expressing oneself. This extensive list of bans serves as a metaphor for the oppressive nature of societal rules and regulations that stifle individuality and freedom.

The repetition of the word "prohibido" (forbidden) throughout the song emphasizes the overwhelming presence of these restrictions in everyday life. The song critiques how these prohibitions extend beyond physical actions to mental and emotional states, suggesting a society that not only controls behavior but also seeks to dominate thoughts and feelings. The line "Prohibido pensar" (forbidden to think) is particularly striking, highlighting the suppression of intellectual freedom and the discouragement of independent thought.

The song also touches on the universal nature of these prohibitions, using multiple languages to convey the message that this is a global issue. The inclusion of words like "vietatto" (Italian for forbidden) and "forbiden" (a misspelling of forbidden) underscores the widespread nature of these societal constraints. The final verses, with their rapid-fire list of prohibitions in English, further drive home the point that these restrictions are not confined to one culture or country but are a pervasive aspect of the human experience.

"Estamos Prohibidos" serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of questioning and challenging the rules that govern our lives. It calls for a reevaluation of what is truly necessary for a harmonious society and what merely serves to limit our potential and happiness.