La Cultura

Kortatu's song 'La Cultura' delves into the disillusionment and frustration that many students feel towards the academic system. The lyrics begin with a relatable scenario: the protagonist is tired and would rather go to bed, but they have to study for an exam. This sets the stage for a critique of the educational system, which the song suggests is more about rote learning and passing exams than genuine intellectual growth. The line 'Cualquiera diría que los exámenes son el fin al que dedican su propia vida' (Anyone would say that exams are the end to which they dedicate their own life) encapsulates this sentiment, highlighting the perceived futility of the academic grind.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reminisces about a time when learning was 'constructive, inspiring, and educational.' This nostalgia contrasts sharply with their current state of mind, where they feel the need to take amphetamines just to get through their studies. The repeated reference to 'Revilla viejo cerdo' (Revilla, old pig) serves as a scapegoat for their frustrations, symbolizing the oppressive forces within the educational system that have been 'jodiendo vivos' (screwing us alive) for many years.

The chorus, 'Que la cultura es tortura, no nos vamos a engañar' (That culture is torture, let's not fool ourselves), is a powerful indictment of the way education is perceived. It suggests that the pursuit of knowledge has become a form of torture rather than a liberating experience. The song also touches on the idea that intellectualism can become a competitive endeavor, where one tries to be 'más que los demás' (more than the others), leading to a life spent with 'la nariz metida entre los libros' (the nose stuck in books) while the world passes by. This critique is not just about the educational system but also about the broader societal values that prioritize academic achievement over personal fulfillment and real-world experiences.