La Correntada

Las Pastillas del Abuelo's song 'La Correntada' paints a vivid picture of chaos and survival in the face of a natural disaster. The lyrics describe a river that has overflowed, symbolically 'claving a sword' and breaking through barriers, leading to a flood that disrupts the lives of the locals. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative filled with fear, desperation, and the struggle to cope with the aftermath of the flood.

The song delves into the reactions of different groups of people affected by the disaster. The 'lugareños' (locals) are fearful and hesitant to evacuate, while 'bucaneros' (pirates) take advantage of the chaos to loot. 'Forasteros' (strangers) come to witness the spectacle, adding to the sense of disorder. This mix of characters highlights the varied human responses to crisis, from fear and opportunism to curiosity and confusion.

Metaphorically, the song also touches on themes of visibility and perception. The 'ojos que no ven nada' (eyes that see nothing) and 'luciérnagas desquiciadas' (crazed fireflies) suggest a sense of disorientation and helplessness. The 'farol a kerosén' (kerosene lamp) symbolizes a faint glimmer of hope or guidance in the darkness. The recurring imagery of water and the 'música del fantasma' (ghost's music) scraping the walls evoke a haunting atmosphere, emphasizing the psychological impact of the disaster. The song concludes with a sense of ongoing struggle, as people navigate the flooded city on rafts, dealing with 'traumas para superar' (traumas to overcome) and the ever-present threat of violence in the 'puta oscuridad' (damn darkness).

'La Correntada' is a powerful exploration of human resilience and the multifaceted nature of crisis. It captures the chaos, fear, and fleeting moments of solidarity that arise in the wake of a disaster, making it a poignant reflection on the human condition.