Civilización
Los Huayra
A Lament for Modernity: The Duality of Civilization
Los Huayra's song "Civilización" is a poignant critique of modern society and its contradictions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the paradoxes inherent in what we call progress. The opening lines, "Campo sembrado, monte arrasado / Qué contradicción," highlight the irony of cultivated fields and destroyed forests, symbolizing the destructive nature of civilization's advancements. The singer expresses a sense of betrayal, noting that what civilization has given, it has also taken away.
The song delves deeper into the moral and ethical implications of progress. The lines "Yo no te acuso, solo rehúso / Esa condición / De ser la presa del que alimenta / Sólo su ambición" reflect a refusal to be a victim of unchecked ambition. This sentiment is echoed in the chorus, where the singer acknowledges the benefits of progress but criticizes its irrational and harmful consequences. The repeated plea, "No quiero verte traer la muerte / La desolación," underscores a desire for a more humane and compassionate society.
Los Huayra also touch on social issues such as homelessness and loneliness, as seen in the lines "Mucho edificio, qué desperdicio / Gente sin hogar" and "Donde el que espera se desespera / Siempre en soledad." These verses highlight the disparity between technological advancements and the persistent social problems that plague modern civilization. The song concludes with a powerful message: "Que el bien de pocos es mal de todos," urging civilization to recognize that the well-being of a few at the expense of many is ultimately detrimental to all.