De Tal Palo Tal Astilla

La Vela Puerca's song 'De Tal Palo Tal Astilla' delves into themes of inherited struggles, identity, and societal pressures. The title itself, which translates to 'Like Father, Like Son,' sets the stage for a narrative about generational traits and the burdens passed down from one generation to the next. The song opens with a dramatic declaration of guilt, suggesting a sense of inescapable fate or inherited blame, which is a recurring theme throughout the lyrics.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a turbulent life, filled with references to survival and the harsh realities of the environment. Lines like 'Tata mío que no me deja respirar' (My father who doesn't let me breathe) and 'Chato, mato si, pa' comer y pa' zafar' (I kill to eat and to get by) highlight the suffocating influence of the past and the desperate measures taken to survive. The mention of 'Paco, fino y rolo' refers to different forms of drugs, indicating a struggle with addiction or the use of substances as a coping mechanism.

The repeated question '¿Cuál es mi bandera?' (Which is my flag?) underscores a search for identity and belonging. This question reflects the confusion and conflict of choosing between different paths or values, whether they are inherited or self-determined. The song also touches on societal issues, with lines like 'No te metas con la gente que está toda de la mente' (Don't mess with people who are all out of their minds) and 'Que son todos clandestinos, que está lleno de asesinos' (They are all clandestine, it's full of killers), painting a picture of a chaotic and dangerous social environment.

Overall, 'De Tal Palo Tal Astilla' is a powerful commentary on the struggles of identity, the weight of inherited traits, and the harsh realities of life. It captures the essence of trying to break free from the past while navigating a complex and often hostile world.