Lecciones De Urbanidad

Joan Manuel Serrat's song 'Lecciones De Urbanidad' offers a biting critique of societal norms and the superficiality of manners, wrapped in a satirical presentation. The lyrics suggest that outward appearances and polite behavior are often used to mask immoral actions and intentions. Serrat uses irony to highlight how society often values these superficial manners over genuine moral integrity.

The song begins by advising listeners to cultivate good manners as a cover for their misdeeds, suggesting that as long as one appears polite and well-mannered, they can easily deceive others and avoid judgment. This theme continues throughout the song with various examples of how to disguise one's true intentions with a facade of civility. The use of phrases like 'cover your low instincts with a sheep's skin' and 'sign death sentences, but with good handwriting' underscores the hypocrisy Serrat is criticizing.

Serrat's clever use of language and imagery, such as 'perfume your repugnance with exquisite urbanity,' serves to further emphasize the absurdity of valuing appearances over authenticity. The song challenges listeners to reflect on the difference between being truly ethical and merely appearing to be so. It's a call to question societal norms that prioritize politeness over genuine goodness, urging a deeper consideration of what it means to be truly 'civilized.'