Usted Y Su Ambición

Los Prisioneros' song 'Usted Y Su Ambición' is a scathing critique of unchecked ambition and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person consumed by their desire for success, to the point where their daily life becomes a series of battles. The protagonist's smile is described as hypocritical, suggesting a facade maintained for the sake of appearances while hiding their true, ruthless nature. The imagery of the person emerging from their 'cave' and driving their car with caution highlights their constant vigilance and focus on their goals, symbolized by the 'hard claws' in their briefcase.

The chorus, 'Usted y su ambición, dan tanto asco,' translates to 'You and your ambition, are so disgusting,' and it is repeated to emphasize the revulsion felt towards this relentless pursuit of power and wealth. The song also touches on the social dynamics between the ambitious individual and their subordinates. The workers greet their boss out of necessity, driven by fear of unemployment, but secretly wish for their downfall. This highlights the lack of genuine respect and the toxic environment created by such ambition.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics list a series of actions—'Habla roba miente suda, Mata llora corre grita'—which translate to 'Talks, steals, lies, sweats, Kills, cries, runs, screams.' This rapid-fire enumeration of verbs underscores the chaotic and morally bankrupt nature of the ambitious person's life. The song concludes with a sense of defiance, as the narrator rejects the material rewards and empty promises of the ambitious individual, preferring to face hardship rather than compromise their integrity. 'Usted Y Su Ambición' serves as a powerful commentary on the corrosive effects of ambition and the hollow victories it brings.