Las Polillas
La Vela Puerca
A Satirical Take on Political Corruption: 'Las Polillas' by La Vela Puerca
La Vela Puerca's song 'Las Polillas' is a biting satire on political corruption and the moral decay that often accompanies the quest for power. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a politician who is more concerned with personal gain than serving the public. The song opens with references to 'polillas' (moths) and 'ratas de callejon' (alley rats), symbolizing the decay and filth associated with corrupt politicians. The imagery of a politician hoarding money in a mattress further emphasizes the theme of greed.
The song's protagonist is a politician who boasts about his charm and the deceptive smile painted by his wife, highlighting the superficiality and deceit in political campaigns. The lyrics mockingly suggest that the politician believes he is the most attractive candidate and is confident that he will win the coveted 'sillon' (chair), a metaphor for a position of power. The repeated plea for votes and the promise of solutions are portrayed as empty rhetoric, underscoring the disingenuous nature of political promises.
As the song progresses, the politician's unethical behavior becomes more apparent. He buys '7 enanos laburantes' (seven working dwarfs) at a fair, symbolizing the exploitation of workers. The politician's association with 'Quique distinguido ladron' (Quique, a distinguished thief) and 'Mr. Cabron' (Mr. Bastard) further illustrates his corrupt network. The song culminates in the politician's downfall, as his reputation is tarnished, and he faces the consequences of his deceit. The final lines reflect a sense of poetic justice, as the politician acknowledges that he will go to hell without the Lord's forgiveness.
'Las Polillas' is a powerful critique of political corruption, using vivid metaphors and dark humor to expose the moral bankruptcy of those who seek power for personal gain. La Vela Puerca's punk rock style adds an edge to the song, making it both a compelling and thought-provoking piece.