Geração Coca-Cola
Legião Urbana
The Rebellious Spirit of 'Geração Coca-Cola'
Legião Urbana's song 'Geração Coca-Cola' is a powerful critique of consumerism and cultural imperialism, particularly focusing on the influence of American culture on Brazilian society. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment and rebellion from a generation that feels manipulated and fed with 'commercial and industrial trash' from a young age. The term 'Geração Coca-Cola' itself is a metaphor for a generation that has been raised on American products and values, symbolizing the pervasive influence of U.S. consumer culture.
The song's narrative is one of awakening and resistance. The lyrics describe how, after years of being subjected to this cultural indoctrination, the youth are now ready to 'spit back the trash' that was fed to them. This act of rebellion is not just against consumerism but also against the broader societal structures that perpetuate inequality and exploitation. The reference to being 'the children of the revolution' and 'bourgeois without religion' highlights a generation that is both aware of its socio-economic status and critical of the traditional values imposed upon them.
Furthermore, the song touches on the theme of education and its role in perpetuating the status quo. After '20 years in school,' the youth have learned the 'dirty tricks' of the system and are now prepared to challenge it. The imagery of 'children toppling kings' and making 'comedy in the cinema with your laws' suggests a radical shift in power dynamics, where the younger generation seeks to dismantle the old order and create something new. 'Geração Coca-Cola' is thus a rallying cry for a generation that refuses to be passive consumers and instead aims to be active agents of change.