Cancheros

Los Piojos' song 'Cancheros' is a powerful anthem of rebellion and disillusionment. The lyrics express a strong rejection of societal scraps and false promises. The repeated phrase 'No queremos' (We don't want) emphasizes the refusal to accept leftovers, bitterness, and superficiality. The song criticizes the superficial rewards and empty gestures often seen on television, symbolized by the 'cara de pescadito' (fish face) and 'regalando premios' (giving away prizes). This imagery paints a picture of a society that values appearances over substance.

The song also delves into the struggles of living a life of poverty and the frustration that comes with it. The lines 'Acostado, sin un cobre, estás cansado de esta vida pobre' (Lying down, without a penny, you're tired of this poor life) highlight the weariness and hopelessness felt by those trapped in poverty. The repetition of 'fumando' (smoking) suggests a sense of stagnation and escape through substance use, specifically marijuana. This repetitive action symbolizes a cycle of despair and the search for solace in a harsh reality.

The turning point in the song comes when the protagonist can no longer bear the situation and takes to the streets to shout out their frustration. The 'cancheros' (the cool ones) are revealed to be 'muertos' (dead), indicating that those who once seemed to have it all figured out are now gone or disillusioned themselves. The search for genuine connection and simplicity is evident in the lines 'Comenzaste a buscar un corazón simple, un corazón abierto' (You started looking for a simple heart, an open heart). This quest for authenticity and real human connection contrasts sharply with the earlier rejection of superficiality and false promises.