Extravismo
Loukass
The Cost of Progress: A Reflection on Modernism and Exploitation
Loukass's song "Extravismo" delves into the complex and often troubling relationship between modern progress and environmental degradation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where the relentless march of modernism leaves a trail of pollution and exhaustion. The opening lines, "Un corazón respira / Y un pez que contamina?" juxtapose the natural act of breathing with the contamination of a fish, symbolizing the paradox of life and pollution coexisting in an increasingly industrialized world.
The song's chorus, "Modernismo, extravismo / No vivian solos, solos," highlights the inextricable link between modernism and exploitation. The term "extravismo" seems to be a play on words, combining "extracción" (extraction) and "modernismo" (modernism), suggesting that the drive for modern progress often comes at the expense of natural resources and human well-being. The repetition of "No vivian solos, solos" emphasizes the collective impact of these forces, indicating that no one is immune to the consequences of unchecked industrialization.
Loukass also touches on the social implications of this relentless progress. Lines like "La gente está cansada / Arrugada y despreciada" reflect the weariness and devaluation of people who are caught in the gears of modernism. The imagery of waiting for imported trash, "Espero la basura / Que llegue importada," underscores the global nature of environmental and social exploitation, where even waste is a commodity that crosses borders. The song ultimately serves as a poignant critique of the unsustainable practices that define contemporary society, urging listeners to reconsider the true cost of progress.